503: IMPORTANT INRO SIGNED TSUISHI YOSEI, ATTR EX GILBERTSON

The early 19th century Japanese three-case lacquered-wood Inro of flattened ovoid form decorated on the mura-nashiji ground with a group of crayfish clambering over and around rockwork with gold and red takamakie with kirigane details, the interior in nashiji lacquer, signed Tsuishu Yosei to the base by inlaid and lacquered bone Ojime. The carving of red lacquer, as seen in the crayfish on this piece is a technique known as 'Tsuishu.'

Tsuishu Yosei was the hereditary name given to a famous family of lacquer carvers dating back to the 14th Century who specialized and excelled in this style of lacquer carving.

The label stuck to the base is important. It is a collection label showing the provenance of this piece as apparently being with Edward Gilbertson (1813-1904). THIS IS AN ATTRIBUTION AND HAS NOT BEEN CONFRIMED. NO GUARANTEE IS BEING OFFERED TO THIS POINT. Gilbertson was an English collector who amassed a large number of Japanese works of art of all types and this label appears to be of the type that he favored. The folded paper label inside the piece also appears to be in his writing.

This case was purchased from Brookside Antiques in Kansas City, Missouri by Ray Allen, now deceased, in the late 1990s.
Measures 3.75 x 3 x 1 inches.
Very good condition throughout, no damage, repair or heavy wear.
$5,000 - $10,000