Case (Inrō) with Design of Grasshopper on Stalk of Flowering Lily 18th - 19th century

This is an Inrō case by Nomura Chōkei, made of lacquered wood with metal inlay and netsuke. The creation of this piece relies on the labor-intensive technique of layering lacquer to build up a lustrous surface. The design, featuring a grasshopper on a lily stalk, is achieved through intricate metal inlay, requiring a high level of skill. The netsuke toggle, a carved figure, shows even more artistry. The smooth finish, precise metalwork, and detailed carving all speak to a tradition where artistry and craft are deeply intertwined. Objects like this were luxury items, commissioned and consumed by the elite. This connects the Inrō to broader economic systems, reflecting a society that valued both artistic expression and social status. By examining the materials, methods, and the world in which this Inrō was produced, we gain insight into the rich cultural history embedded within its form.