Inrō with Stylized Waves 1790 - 1899

This intricately crafted Inrō, a traditional Japanese container, showcases the masterful artistry of Shibata Zeshin, a prominent lacquer artist of the 19th century. The piece, titled "Inrō with Stylized Waves," features a striking design of stylized waves rendered in silver and gold lacquer. The delicate details and the rich colors exemplify Zeshin's exceptional skill in the art of lacquerwork, a technique that involves layering multiple layers of lacquer to create intricate and durable designs. Inrōs were used to hold small personal items and were often decorated with elaborate motifs, such as this one, reflecting the owner's taste and status. This particular inrō is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, NY.