Inrō with Prince Yamato Takeru Disguised as a Woman 1752

This Inrō, or traditional Japanese case for holding small objects, was likely made by the artist Bairin, using a range of materials including gold, lacquer, and ivory. The lustrous quality of the gold, combined with the intricate carving and layering of lacquer, displays the artistry involved. The production of such an object would have demanded specialized expertise, time, and labor. The process begins with carving the main body into stacked compartments and then applying layers of lacquer, building up a smooth surface. The narrative scene is then added through delicate carving and metalworking. In Japanese culture, inrō cases were more than utilitarian; they were fashion statements and status symbols. Each element, from the materials to the imagery, conveyed social standing. The depiction of Prince Yamato Takeru adds another layer of meaning, referencing a revered figure in Japanese folklore. The inrō stands as a testament to how materials, processes, and cultural context converge to create an object of beauty and significance, blurring the lines between craft, design, and fine art.