Case (Inrō) with Design of Clamshells and Fireflies 1771 - 1799

This is an Inrō case with a design of clamshells and fireflies, made by Koma Yasutada. Considered as important fashion accessories in Japan, Inrō cases such as this example weren't just functional, but also statements of personal style. We can understand this particular case better through a dive into the history of Japanese lacquerware and decorative art. The combination of clamshells and fireflies tells of the traditional Japanese appreciation for nature, but also alludes to the season in which it was made. The fireflies, depicted as small black dots, create a sense of depth and perspective, while the gold and silver details suggest the high social status of its owner. When researching this piece further, we might look to period fashion magazines, auction catalogs, and sociological studies of consumer culture, and in this way better understand the status of luxury goods in Japan at this time.