A five-case Japanese lacquer inro decorated with the Seven Sages of the Bamboo Grove (Chikurin Shichiken), the classical Chinese theme of scholar-recluses gathered beneath bamboo, a subject widely adopted in Japanese decorative arts. The black lacquer ground is worked in low relief, with the figures, robes and bamboo leaves defined by fine incised lines highlighted in gold and red. The design continues across all five cases and over the top and sides. The inro is fitted with metal rim and corner mounts, a refined and less common feature. The interiors are finished in gold-flecked lacquer, and one case is fitted with a small round compartment lined in red lacquer. The set is completed by a carved wood netsuke of an animal clutching a large fish, with inlaid eyes, signed Meisan (明山) on an inset round plaque, together with a square-cut wood ojime and silk cord. Inro: Lacquer on wood, five cases, metal rim and corner mounts. H 8 cm x W 7.5 cm x D 2.4 cm, 87 g. Netsuke: Carved wood, inlaid eyes, signed Meisan (明山). 4.1 x 3 cm. Ojime: Square-cut wood bead. Period: The inro is estimated to date from the Meiji period (late 19th century), based on technique, mounts and style. The netsuke may be of a later date and is likely associated with the inro. Netsuke: Late 20th century Condition: Good antique condition with age-related wear. Small areas of lacquer loss and fine cracks in the lacquer, including near one corner, and wear to the gold lacquer on the case rims. The metal mounts show natural tarnish and have not been polished. All five cases fit and open and close properly. The cord, ojime and netsuke are intact. Please see the photos, which form part of the description. Provenance: From a private collection in Kyoto, Japan.