Case (Inrō) with Design of Elephant (obverse); Chinese Characters (reverse)

Dark green rectangular object with rounded corners, divided into two panels. Left panel features an intricately designed elephant with a long curved tusk, adorned with decorative patterns. Elephant stands facing right, has a large body and head, with visible ears and tusks. Panel has a border of interlocking lines and shapes. Right panel has four columns of Chinese characters, with three characters in each column. Characters are embossed and appear to be a combination of symbols and logograms. This panel also features a border of interlocking lines and shapes, similar to the left panel. Object appears to have a dark green patina and is made of a material resembling lacquer or stone. Object has a series of thin cracks running horizontally and vertically across both panels. Background of the image is a light brown color visible on either side of the panels. Two black straps or cords are visible at the top of the image, possibly used for hanging.

Artwork Details

Date: 1721
Medium: Lacquer, roiro, black hiramakie, takamakie; Interior: roiro and gold leaf
Culture: Japan
Dimensions: 599 × 323 px
Public Domain: Yes
Museum Record: View original

Palette