Inro with Crane and Mt. Fuji by GYOKUKISAI

A four-case inro of rounded form. Its deep black lacquer ground is decorated in gold takamaki-e and hiramaki-e with a single landscape that runs uninterrupted across the cases. Mount Fuji rises from the top case, its slopes rendered in finely combed gold and dissolving into drifting cloud scattered with glittering gold flecks. Below, a crane swoops down with wings raised high towards a rocky shore. The red of its crown is the only accent of colour against the gold. Finely drawn waves fill the lower cases, with young pine at the water's edge. Bands of gold cloud wrap over the top and base, tying the lid and lowest case into the composition. The inro is strung with a purple silk cord.

Compare: Inro with Cranes, late 19th century, Victoria and Albert Museum, London, inv. W.211 to B-1921