Japanese three-compartment maki-e lacquer inro with bird and berry inlay, signed Tomoyoshi

This Japanese inro is a traditional portable container, crafted with three internal compartments. It is constructed from lacquer, utilizing the maki-e (sprinkled metal) technique, which provides a rich, decorative finish.

The surface is executed in a nashiji ground, a distinctive speckled texture achieved by embedding gold or silver flakes in clear lacquer. The exterior is adorned with an intricate motif featuring two birds; one is depicted perched upon a branch laden with berries, while the second is shown in flight on the reverse side. The decorative elements are further embellished with mother-of-pearl inlays for the birds and red coral for the berries.

The piece measures 7 x 7 centimeters. It bears the signature of the maker, Tomoyoshi (朝義). The object reflects the fine craftsmanship associated with 19th-century Japanese lacquerware, though it shows some expected age-related wear, specifically in the lacquer and two small losses to the inlay work.