Unsigned inro
19th Century
A four-case Somada-makie inro richly decorated with New Year symbols. Daikoku laughs as he surveys a tub full of tama (sacred jewels) holding up a selected example up in his hand, while two of his attendant rats linger by its side. Above him hangs a rice straw garland (shimenawa) adorned with a bitter orange (daidai), symbolising family prosperity. The reverse shows A pine branch decoration that would be placed by the entrance door and a brocade treasure bag, carefully guarded by a rat. The accompanying manju and ojime display Buddhist symbols. Roiro ground decorated in gold and silver lacquer and rich inlays of aogai (haliotis). The accompanying hako-netsuke and ojime with Buddhist symbols.
