Unsigned five case inro

circa 1860

A five case inro with a design of a hawk perched on a rocky promontory overhanging the sea, bamboo shoots and winter cherry sprouting from the crevices of the outcrop. The raptor’s wings are poised as it peers intently into the crashing waves below, ready to swoop on its unsuspecting prey. The scene is one of winter. According to the Nihon Shoki, hunting with hawks (takagari) was introduced from Korea in the 4th century and enjoyed huge popularity throughout the Edo era. The bird of prey is considered an emblem of masculinity. The bird’s imposing presence is reinforced by the extravagant use of gold foil to highlight its plumage, contrasting with the brownish shade of its underparts, while its beady eye is inlaid with glass.

Roiro ground, decorated in takamakie with details in kirikane, hiramakie, e-nashiji and scattered mura-nashiji.

A paper label inside one of the cases is inscribed with the name of the medicine it once held: Sekiryū-tan or “Red Dragon pills”. The katakana inscription on the paper labels “イキアイ、キツケikiai, kitsuke” may be translated: “for coughs and ease of breathing, and stimulating restorative tonic use”

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