Inrō with Rinpa Style Kanzan and Jittoku 1800 - 1849

This Inrō with Rinpa Style Kanzan and Jittoku, attributed to the influential Japanese artist Ogata Kōrin, is a fine example of the Rinpa style. This decorative and functional art piece, dating from 1800 - 1849, is comprised of three sections and features images of the legendary tea masters Kanzan and Jittoku. This inrō, a small container suspended from a sash, would have been used to hold medicine or small personal items and was likely created as a commemorative piece by a follower of Kōrin. The use of mother of pearl for Kanzan's robe and the gold lacquer on the inrō showcase the exquisite craftsmanship of the Rinpa style. The inrō is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.