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Inrō in the Shape of a House

late 18th–early 19th century
Not on view
Decorated with a combination of lacquer techniques in silver and gold, the inrô in the shape of a thatched hut bears the signature of Koami Shinsaburo. The ivory netsuke, signed by ôhara Mitsuhiro, depicts one of the Seven Gods of Good Luck known as Hotei. A rotund, jolly figure, Hotei's attributes often include a fan and a bag to carry his treasures.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 家屋形蒔絵印籠
  • Title: Inrō in the Shape of a House
  • Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
  • Date: late 18th–early 19th century
  • Culture: Japan
  • Medium: Two cases; lacquered wood with gold and silver takamaki-e, hiramaki-e, togidashimaki-e, cutout gold foil application on black lacquer groundNetsuke: ivory; Hotei in a bagOjime: metal bead
  • Dimensions: Inro: H. 2 1/4 in. (5.7 cm); W. 1 7/8 in. (4.8 cm); D. 9/16 in. (1.5 cm))
    Netsuke: H. 1 in. (2.5 cm); W. 1 3/4 in. (4.4 cm); D. 1 1/4 in. (3.2 cm)
  • Classification: Inrō
  • Credit Line: H. O. Havemeyer Collection, Bequest of Mrs. H. O. Havemeyer, 1929
  • Object Number: 29.100.841
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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