Inro is a container made up of tiers. From the late 16th century, Japanese men wore an inro suspended from their sash by a silk cord and a netsuke (toggle) because the traditional Japanese garment, the kimono, had no pockets. They were originally used to hold their owner's seal and ink or a supply of medicines. However, inro rapidly became costly fashion accessories of little or no practical use. Most inro are rectangular with gently curving sides.
This example is decorated with real and imaginary birds and animals in glazed earthenware. Ceramic inro are unusual, especially at this early date. The background of this design, however, suggests that it imitates leather. During the late 1700s and early 1800s, Dutch leather became popular in Japan and the craftsman who made this inro probably had knowledge of such exotic wares. The design of this inro, moreover, is based on a yet unidentified western engraving. There is a very similar inro in another collection, though the design is based on a different engraving.
From the 1700s onwards, many artists signed the inro they made. Although this example is not signed, the similar example mentioned above is signed Haritsu, together with a date corresponding to 1753. Since Ogawa Haritsu died in 1747, this must have been the work of Mochizuki Hanzan (1743-90?), who was one of the most talented followers of Ogawa Haritsu (1663-1747). Hanzan was also known as Haritsu II. Haritsu I was a highly individual and innovative lacquer craftsman. This inro, therefore, reflects Hanzan’s innovative approach to his work, like that of the master he admired.