A LACQUERED FOUR-CASE INRO WITH IMPERIAL HORSE
Unsigned
Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

A relatively large four-case inro decorated on one side with a horse lacquered in silver, red and gold takamaki-e, one hoof raised, and its head turned to the right, trying to break free, as it is tied to a tree on the other side. The horse is wearing an ornate saddle, decorated with gold takamaki-e with floral depictions and kikunogomon, the imperial seal of Japan used by the emperor and the imperial family. The matte lacquer of the horse is beautifully contrasting to the shimmering gold takamaki-e of the saddle, the gold takamaki-e trees and the sprinkled gold nashiji at the base of the inro. The ground is lacquered to simulate tortoiseshell. The inside with gold fundame.

HEIGHT 9 cm, WIDTH 6.2 cm

Condition: The ground of the side of the horse is possibly slightly re-painted. A little wear around the edges. The lacquer work generally in very good condition.
Provenance: Austrian private collection.