Fine Antique Japanese Lacquer Ivory Inro Box Necklace

Description

A beautiful and rare antique Japanese 4-part ‘Inro’ that would originally have hung on a long silk cord but at some point in it’s past has been restrung on fine woven snake chain to make it into a wearable pendant. This stunning piece is finely decorated with a bird amongst cherry blossom branches to one side, and a stork flying above bamboo and trees on the other.

An ‘Inro’ is a set a small lacquerware stacking boxes that would originally have been worn by a fine Japanese gentleman from the obi belt of his kimono. They often held seals, powder, or medicines and were a handy and beautiful way of transporting a gentleman’s essentials as kimonos don’t have pockets. They were very first used in the mid-15th Century but popular in Japanese culture all the way through until the 1910s after which they become collectible objects in their own right.

I have had independent verification from a specialist in Japanese lacquerware at a major auction house that this example is 19th Century when amongst the finest examples were being produced; so either late Edo period (1603-1868) or early Meiji period (1868-1912).

An exquisite piece of craftsmanship in gorgeous condition and made extra wearable as a long necklace for any modern lady or gent.

ERA: 19th Century (late Edo/early Meiji)

ORIGIN: Japanese. It does bear a signature or some early Japanese characters but alas haven’t been able to get it identified to a particular maker.

SIZE: 2.75 high but 1.75 wide.

MATERIAL: Japanese Lacquerware, original carved ivory bead, and fine woven vintage silver chain with gold-fill clasp.

CONDITION: Lacquer is in exceptionally good condition given its age and what it’s made from; no discernible chips or cracks that I can spot. Ivory bead is original and smoothly polished with good even creamy colour. Chain is vintage; possibly 1930s judging by the clasp.

SHIPPING: Free inside the U.S. and to the UK – see FAQs for shipping and customs details.

TAGS: Fine Antique Japanese Lacquer Ivory Inro Box Necklace