After Ogata Korin (1658-1716), inscribed Hokkyo Korin 法橋 光琳
Japan, 19^th century

Of upright rectangular form and oval section, bearing a bright gold nashiji ground, finely worked in gold takamaki-e, as well as inlays of mitsuda (pewter) and aogai, to depict Toba riding his mule dressed in a heavy cloak and large hat. The verso decorated with tall bamboo shoots and foliage. Inscribed to the underside Hokkyo Korin. The interior compartments of gold fundame. With a coral ojime.

HEIGHT 7.9 cm, LENGTH 5.7 cm

Condition: Very good condition with only minor wear.
Provenance: Collection of Drs. Edmund and Julie Lewis.

Rinpa is a modern term that refers to a distinctive style of Japanese pictorial and applied arts that arose in the early seventeenth century and has continued through modern times. Literally meaning ‘school of Korin,’ Rinpa derives its name from Ogata Korin (1658–1716), a celebrated painter from Kyoto. It embraces art marked by a bold, graphic abbreviation of natural motifs, frequent reference to traditional court literature and poetry, the lavish use of expensive mineral and metallic pigments, incorporation of calligraphy into painting compositions, and innovative experimentation with new brush techniques. Transmitted by means of pattern books and manuals, the work of the Ogata Korin inspired numerous other craftsmen.

Korin was a follower and the greatest exponent of the versatile artist and craftsman, Hon’ami Koetsu (1558-1637). Koetsu pioneered a distinctive style of lacquerwork that made use of relatively straightforward techniques of lacquer, with inlays of shell and lead. His designs are usually in silhouette with little or no interior detail.

Auction comparison:
Compare a closely related three-case inro in Rinpa style, also with signature Hokkyo Korin, at Christie’s, Japanese Art & Design, London, 16 November 2000, lot 25 (sold for GBP 1,880).