Japanese Five-Case Gold Lacquer Inro with Plum Blossoms and a Red Sun, 19th Century.
{Length: 3 1/2 inches (8.9 cm)}.

Decorated with a gnarled plum tree and flowering branches in gold maki-e, with raised details and finely dotted embellishments. The reverse features a large red sun behind flowering plum branches, contrasting with the gold ground. The continuous design extends across the five compartments and cover.

Provenance: From the collection of a distinguished Japanese collector in San Jose, California, whose life included travels in Manchuria during the 1930s and incarceration in a U.S. internment camp following the attack on Pearl Harbor. These works bear witness to a precious family history and to the conviction and courage needed to preserve cultural heritage through adversity. Upon receiving the family's photographs, newspaper articles, and archival materials, Michaan's Auctions was deeply moved by their thoughtful preservation and enduring respect for history, culture, and art. We are honored to present treasures from this family collection.

For condition report and additional photos, please contact the Asian Art Department.