Case (Inrō) with Design of Dragonfly (obverse); Praying Mantis (reverse)

Rectangular, dark brown object with rounded corners and a gradient that fades to light brown. A red dragonfly with gold accents is centered on the object, surrounded by gold plants and grasses. A red cord threaded through a small hole at the top, with a gray and gold bead; the cord tied in a bow at the bottom. A gold toggle with a praying mantis design attached to the cord.

Artwork Details

Date: 19th century
Medium: Case: powdered gold (maki-e) and colored lacquer on black lacquer; Fastener (ojime): metal with design of dragon blossoms; Toggle (netsuke): ivory carved in the shape of a gourd and cicada
Culture: Japan
Dimensions: 468 × 624 px
Public Domain: Yes
Museum Record: View original

Palette