Mother of Pearl Inlaid Floral Inro

Inro 19th Century
Japan
H:8cm x W:5cm

The exterior of this four case inro is covered by a lustrous black lacquer. This dark background provides a stark contrast to the two clusters of Hydrangea plants, raised to the foreground in lustrous gold (takamakie). The detail in the gold lacquer is impressive with the veins of the flowers and neighbouring leaves clearly defined. Another dimension is added by the mother of pearl (raden) inlay used to accent the central flowers and tips of the leaves. Extending on from the main body of the inro is a chestnut-coloured silk tie, cream-coloured top bead (ojime) and hexagonal netsuke. The sides of the netsuke have been adorned with a gold geometric pattern and the top features a bouquet of different flowers in gold, mother of pearl and coral.