Case (Inrō) with Design of Bird in Flight above Rice Fields (obverse); Trees and Clouds (reverse) 19th century

This Inrō case, made by Hogen Eisen, features a bird in flight over rice fields on one side and trees with clouds on the other. Inrō, small stackable cases, were worn suspended from the obi, or sash, and were a common fashion accessory in Japanese society. Considered alongside socio-economic conditions, this Inrō offers insight into the cultural aesthetics and class distinctions of the Edo period. The decoration of the case with natural imagery also signifies a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature and the spiritual dimensions of the landscape. In Japanese culture, rice fields are not only essential for sustenance, but also deeply connected to spiritual beliefs. This piece offers a narrative about the interconnectedness of life and the natural world, highlighting the human relationship to the environment. This piece is a reflection on the beauties and profundities of the world.