Inro, Japan, 17th century - 18th century

Inro, Japan, 17th century - 18th century is an object recorded by Victoria and Albert Museum, dated 17th century - 18th century. The museum's brief description reads: Inrō decorated with Shishi and Kirin, lacquer, Zokoku style, Japan, 17th century - 18th century. Museum description: Inrō decorated with Shishi on one side and Kirin on the other, against a background of scrolls characteristic of guri lacquer. Guri lacquer in a sequence of layers of dark brown, ochre, red and brown from the top down. Instead of the cord channels being continuous, there is a break about half way down which results in the partial exposure of the cord. Groove along the bottom of the inrō to accommodate the cord. Dark brown lacquer imitating leather, with removable tray. The museum record gives material recorded as lacquer; measurements Height 9.7 cm; Width 10.2 cm; Depth 3.8 cm; place associated: Japan. These details come from the holding museum's own record; how far this object represents a wider collectible type has not yet been independently verified.