| DESCRIPTION: An exceptional two case maki-e inro, signed by the artist, “Kansai.” This extraordinary inro is inlaid with both abalone shell and a sword sharpening stone in the shape of a boat. The stone boat rests on a river bank made of very fine copper-gold toned powders, surrounded front and back by a profusion of water plants and waves executed in gold taka-maki-e. The boat cover of abalone rests on the bank above the boat. All interior compartments are of fine kin (gold) nashiji. Beautifully complementing the inro is a flawless, pure crystal netsuke and ojime with absolutely no inclusions or imperfections. This exceptionally rare inro is in pristine, almost perfect condition – as if it had been wrapped in cloth and hidden away since the day it was made! I can find virtually no wear at all. This rare, exquisite piece is suitable for the finest of inro collections.
The work of the artist, Kansai, was represented in both the Bushell and Greenfield collections. There were three artists who signed their work Kansai or Koma Kansai -- a father, son and grandson. Raymond Bushell, on page 102 of his book “The Inro Handbook,” states: “The first Kansai was adopted by the Koma family school of lacquerers. All three generations specialized in inro. The father died in 1792. The son (1766 – 1835) was the teacher of Zeshin. The grandson succeeded to the name in 1824. It is almost impossible to distinguish the work of the three Kansai, since their styles are so similar. Apparent age would seem to be a weak guide.” With that in mind, we would date this inro to the Edo Period between the late 18th to the first half of the 19th century. DIMENSIONS: Inro: 2” high x 1 5/8” wide. Netsuke: 2” long x 1 1/8” wide. Ojime: 5/8” diameter.
Stock #SN15 |
