Nomura Choheisai

Nomura Choheisai was a Japanese lacquer artist who lived from 1750 to 1799. He was known for his exquisite inro, small, nested boxes traditionally used to hold medicines and other small objects, often decorated with intricate designs using a technique called maki-e, in which gold and silver powder are sprinkled onto lacquer. This example, featuring a grapevine with leaves crafted from mother-of-pearl, showcases Choheisai's masterful skill in creating three-dimensional imagery with lacquer. His works were highly sought after and continue to be prized for their beauty and craftsmanship.