Case (Inrō) in the Shape of an Ink Stick with Design of God of Longevity (Jurōjin), Reading beneath a Star Constellation (obverse);Twelve-Character Inscription (reverse)

Rectangular black object with a glossy finish, exhibiting a cracked surface. A black cord with red and white details is attached to the top. The object features two distinct designs. The obverse displays a raised relief scene depicting a figure sitting at a table with another figure standing beside them. The standing figure holds an object in one hand. A star constellation pattern fills the top portion of the scene. The reverse bears a twelve-character inscription in raised relief, arranged vertically down the center. The characters are carved into the surface. The background of the image is a plain brown color.

Artwork Details

Date: 19th century
Medium: Roiro (waxen) lacquer with black hiramakie sprinkled and polished lacquer and takamakie sprinkled and polished lacquer relief; Interior: roiro; Netsuke: lacquer in shape of a worn ink stick; Ojime: black lacquer bead
Culture: Japan
Dimensions: 599 × 543 px
Public Domain: Yes
Museum Record: View original

Palette