Case (Inrō) with Design of Demon in Escape

Art Historical Context

This exquisite *Inrō* (lacquer case), crafted by Shibata Zin in Japan's Meiji period (186–1912), served as a portable accessory for men, suspended from the kimono sash to hold medicines, seals, or tobacco. Zeshin, a master lacquer artist revered as one of Japan's "Three Great Lacquerers," elevated the humble inrō into a for artistic innovation, blending traditional craftsmanship withly finesse during an era of rapid modernization. The case's surface dazzles with hiramaki-e (flat sprinkled gold and silver powder) and takamaki-e (raised gold motifs), accented by vibrant red lacquer and shimmering mother-of-pearl inlays on a bamboo core. A playful demon in mid-escape animates the design, capturing the mischievous yokai spirits of Japanese folklore. Its compact size—mere 2 13/16 x 1 9/16 x 11/16 inches—highlights the precision required for such intricate work, with plain wooden drawers inside for practicality. Acquired through the Rogers Fund in 1913, this Metropolitan Museum of Art treasure exemplifies Meiji lacquerware's global appeal, bridging Edo-period traditions with Western influences. Visitors, imagine slipping this whimsical guardian into your obi— a demon fleeing, yet forever trapped in golden splendor!

About the Artist

Shibata Zeshin · 1807–1891

Japanese, 1807–1891