【Important notes】 ・International buyers are responsible for any import duties, taxes, and charges not included in the item price or shipping cost. Please note that VAT paid to Catawiki is separate from and does not cover import duties or customs charges in your country. You may still be required to pay additional fees upon delivery, as determined by your local customs authorities. We strongly recommend checking with your country's customs office to determine these additional costs before bidding or buying. Prompt payment of these fees ensures timely delivery. ・Shipping Details: Most items are shipped via Japan Post EMS (airmail). Upon request, we can arrange shipping via DHL or FedEx for an additional fee. ・Damage and Issues: If you receive a damaged item, please contact us immediately before leaving a negative review. We kindly ask for your patience and the opportunity to rectify the issue. The damage must be reported to your local post office within 7 days of delivery, and promptly to us and Catawiki support. 【Product details】 This luxurious five-compartment inrō from the Edo period or later is decorated in exquisite maki-e lacquer work on a black lacquer ground. The primary motif is a pine tree, rendered in remarkably fine detail with delicate lines capturing each pine needle and the textured bark of the trunk. Waves and mist-like elements are also included, adding movement and contrast to the composition. The background incorporates shimmering nashiji (gold flecks scattered to create a pear-skin texture), alongside decorative kirikane-style squares of gold and silver foils. The interior is finished in rich, full nashiji, highlighting the opulence and craftsmanship of this piece. In Japanese culture, the pine tree symbolises longevity, endurance, and steadfastness, while waves often represent the powerful and ever-changing force of nature. Maki-e is a traditional Japanese decorative technique where gold or silver powder is sprinkled onto wet lacquer to produce intricate designs. Nashiji employs a similar method, using gold or silver flecks to achieve a pear skin-like texture, offering a unique shimmer and depth to the surface. The carved bone netsuke features a smiling elderly man holding a staff and carrying a turtle on his back. In East Asian culture, the turtle is a well-known symbol of longevity, wisdom, and protection. The dynamic carving adds a playful touch to the elegant inrō. The cord is adorned with a bead, likely made from natural carnelian stone. Carnelian is associated with warmth, vitality, courage, and creativity, often believed to support confidence and eloquence in speech. Signs of use and age are present throughout, including surface wear, missing gold leaf fragments, a small chip on the side wood, minor discolouration, fine scratches, lacquer losses, and stains. The netsuke also shows some light scuffing. Overall, the item displays natural ageing and usage. Please refer to the photos for condition details. Dimensions of Inro: approx. H 9.5 cm W 4.5 cm D 3 cm ・Please make sure to review all the provided information and images before placing your bid. ・We make every effort to accurately represent the product's colors and textures in our photos. However, due to differences in monitors and device displays, as well as photographic conditions, slight color variations between the photos and the actual product may occur. We ask for your understanding in advance. Thank you for your interest, and happy bidding!