Case (Inrō) with Design of Blossoming Plum Tree 19th century

This is a case, or inrō, decorated with a blossoming plum tree, made by Kano Seisen’in sometime before 1828. The inrō is a traditional Japanese case, often worn by men to carry small objects, like seals or medicines, suspended from their sash. During the Edo period, artists like Kano Seisen’in navigated a complex social landscape, as artistic expression often intertwined with political and cultural norms. The choice of a blossoming plum tree for this inrō is significant. In Japanese art, the plum blossom is a symbol of resilience, renewal, and the coming of spring. It was a popular motif, embodying virtues admired in society. Looking closely, we see the meticulous detail and sophisticated lacquer techniques characteristic of the Kano school. But beyond the technical mastery, consider the quiet, personal act of carrying this inrō. It’s a blend of public symbolism and private meaning, a subtle expression of identity and aspiration in a world of social codes and expectations.