Bird and Plum Blossoms Maki-e and Nashiji Inro (印籠) with Gourd Hermit Netsuke - Japan - Edo Period (1600-1868)

【Important notes】

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【Product details】

This exquisite Edo-period or later four-case inro is decorated in gold and silver maki-e lacquer with a design of mejiro (Japanese white-eye) perched among blossoming plum branches, a motif celebrating the arrival of spring and renewal. At the base of the plum trunk, a small toad sits beside stylised waves, adding a playful and auspicious accent. Small gold leaf flecks are delicately sprinkled along the plum tree trunk, enhancing the sense of light and depth.

The reverse depicts a pair of small boats on a river. One carries a noble-looking figure standing at the bow, while the other shows a man steering with a pole. The calm water surface, expressed through flowing gold lines, evokes the quiet movement of spring and the poetic atmosphere of Edo-period landscapes.

The interior is entirely finished in nashiji, achieved by sprinkling fine gold flakes into wet lacquer to create a shimmering pear-skin effect.

Accompanying the inrō is a Hyōtan Sennin (Gourd Hermit) netsuke carved from bone, depicting the Taoist immortal holding his magical gourd, a symbol of wisdom and supernatural power.

The inrō shows age-related scuffs, small chips, discolouration, and slight lacquer losses consistent with age. The netsuke has losses to both feet (except the heels), with discolouration and surface wear. Please refer to the photos for details.

Dimensions of Inro: approx. H 6 cm W 5.8 cm D 2 cm
Dimensions of Netsuke: approx. H 5 cm W 2.3 cm D 1.8 cm

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Thank you for your interest, and happy bidding!