Inro with Design of Hollyhock Flowers and Buds

Currently not on view

Inro with Design of Hollyhock Flowers and Buds

Early 18th century

Attributed to Ogata Kōrin (Japanese, 1658–1716)

This inro (a compartmented container that would have been hung at the waist, and would have held medicine or other kinds of small objects) is decorated with a design of hollyhock flowers and buds. Ogata Körin looked to the bold style developed by Hon'ami Koetsu and Tawaraya Sotatsu for inspiration for his designs. He came from a family of textile designers and was raised in an atmosphere of privilege and artistic refinement. Neither Körin or his brother Kenzan had a head for business, however, and Körin began to paint and design textiles and lacquerware like this piece to help pay the bills.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Inro with Design of Hollyhock Flowers and Buds

Date:

Early 18th century

Artist:

Attributed to Ogata Kōrin (Japanese, 1658–1716)

Medium:

Inro: black and gold lacquer on wood with lead and mother-of-pearl inlayOjime: brass

Dimensions:

Inro: 2 1/4 x 2 inches (5.7 x 5.1 cm)

Classification:

Containers

Credit Line:

Gift of Mrs. S. Emlen Stokes, 1987

Accession Number:

1987-25-2a--e

Geography:

Made in Japan, Asia

Context:

Period: Edo Period (1615-1868)

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Currently not on view