Case (Inrō) with Design of Imperial Cart and Flying Herons (obverse); Court Carriage and Flying Herons (reverse) 19th century

This small case, or Inrō, was made in Japan by the Kajikawa School, using lacquer. Lacquer is the sap of a tree, applied in thin layers and allowed to cure. Here, it has been built up to create a gleaming surface, then carved and inlaid with gold to create the imagery of herons and a royal carriage. Look closely and you’ll see that the artists weren't just painters, but also sculptors, meticulously building up depth and texture. This kind of decoration required not just artistic skill, but also intense patience. Lacquer is a slow material. Each layer demands time to dry and harden. This Inrō wasn’t just an object, but a demonstration of values and the cultural capital of the owner who commissioned it. The artistry on display elevated the case from a simple container to a symbol of wealth, status, and discerning taste. When we consider art, we should always be mindful of the labor, the process, and the social context that are so elegantly presented.