Inro - a small lacquered container hung from the waist, generally used to hold seals or medicines
In short, no. Perhaps if people were more familiar with this 16th century Japanese version of the wallet we may be more optimistic about its resurgence.
But wouldn’t it be nice to see people wearing these handsome lacquer boxes around their necks or, in the traditional fashion, around their waists.
Where to get an inro for your summer wardrobe? Well the best place to start looking is with a collector or at a museum.
Given that these are generally historical items dating from before the 1870s, when the Japanese governement was trying to phase out traditional dress in favour of western attire, you’ll probably have to part with large sums of cash to get one.
If you want to sport an inro on a budget, though, you could try making one. Making a simple wooden or papier maché container should be straightforward enough but you could probably buy one fairly cheaply if you don’t feel up to this or you want to save time. You may have to brush up your lacquering technique. Three layers applied on top of a foundation layer, and then a finishing layer would probably sufffice.
And the advantage of making your own inro is that you can apply your own contemporary designs.
Post links to pictures of your inros here or email them and I’ll post them up. Get lacquering!
Tags: 16th century, Inro, Japan, lacquer, wallet