Case (Inrō) with Design of Courtier and Lady in a Boat (from the Tale of Genji) 18th century

This 18th-century inrō, a small, two-part case traditionally worn by Japanese men, is a fine example of the work of Ogata Kōrin, a leading figure in the Rinpa school of decorative art. The inrō, crafted from black lacquer and decorated with mother-of-pearl and gold, depicts a scene from The Tale of Genji, a classic work of Japanese literature, showing a nobleman and a lady in a boat. The intricate details and vibrant colors of this small but beautifully crafted object showcase Kōrin's mastery of the Rinpa style.