Inro with Ojime and Nestuke
Description
Inro (literally, “seal basket”) are small containers to keep items like seals and medicines. They were hung on a cord which was passed through a bead called Ojime, then through a decorative toggle called Netsuke which was pushed behind the Obi (sash) of a Kimono to emerge at the top. These came into use during the 17th century and were an important personal accessory for Japanese men of the period. The decoration of inro reflected their wearer’s importance and they were a symbol of his taste, status, and wealth.
Netsuke developed from being strictly utilitarian to an object of extraordinary craftsmanship. The design reflects important aspects of Japanese folklore and life.
A Four-case Somada style inro with dragonflies design, inlaid with mother-of-pearl and gold lacquer outline on it. The into is unsigned. The ojime is an orange bead
The netsuke is an ivory seated figure of a Japanese man holding a tsuzumi (hand drum) and celebrating the New Year. There is a signature at the base.
Sir Ratan Tata Art Collection
Collection
Japanese Art
Object Type
Inro Nestuke Ojime
Material
Ivory, Lacquer
Schools/Culture/Period
Meiji period
Technique
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Date
1868–1912 CE
Location
Japan
Dimension
Inro - H:9, L:6.7 Netsuke - H:3.1, L:3.7