Case (Inrō) with Design of Caparisoned Elephant (obverse); Characters in Panel (reverse) 18th - 19th century

This 18th-19th century inrō (a type of small, Japanese case) by Fangshi Mopu features an intricately carved design of a caparisoned elephant on the obverse and characters in a panel on the reverse. The inrō is made of lacquered wood and decorated with gold, silver, and other materials. Inrō were traditionally used to hold small personal items, such as medicine, seals, or money. This particular inrō showcases the craftsmanship and artistic skill of the Edo period in Japan, during which time inrō were considered a fashionable and popular accessory.