Inro with the Three Friends of Winter (Pine, Bamboo, and Prunus)

Description A standard (oblong) "tsuishu" lacquer four compartment inro. A design of pine, bamboo, and prunus in "tsuishu" carving on a red ground. The lower section of the inro with a diaper pattern of "asanoha." The interior in "nashiji" and "fundame." The cord channels are external. Together with a lacquered wood carved netsuke in the shape of a seated "shishi inu."

Exhibitions

• Netsuke: Miniature Sculpture of Japan. The Walters Art Gallery, Baltimore. 1978.

Provenance William T. / Henry Walters Collection, Baltimore [date and mode of acquisition unknown]; Walters Art Museum, 1931, by bequest.

Inscriptions none

Credit Acquired by William T. or Henry Walters