Inro is a small case that was originally used to store small items in Japan. Cases like these were hung from an obi (belt) that was worn around the waist when wearing a kimono. Over time, inro became a status symbol and became part of traditional Japanese art.
metmuseum.org
Inro originated in Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868), when the wearing of kimonos was widespread. Initially, inros were used by men to store medicines, seals and other small items. Since the kimono had no pockets, it was difficult to do without such cases. Often they were intended to carry something specific - tobacco, writing brushes and ink.
en.wikipedia.org
In the middle of the Edo period, inro evolved from simple functional objects into true works of art. They began to be decorated with a variety of materials such as paper, wood, metal and ivory, with paper being the most common material. Craftsmen created exquisite patterns and inlays, making each intro unique.
metmuseum.org
The process of making inro was complex. As a rule, such cases consisted of several compartments inserted into one another. After decoration, they were varnished. Since every detail was carefully thought out and made by hand, the inroes of that time became real works of art.
Today, inro are rarely used as kimono accessories, however they are still treasured by collectors around the world. A lot of ancient and modern history is collected in such famous museums as the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
metmuseum.org
Although inro are no longer an everyday accessory, they remain an important part of Japanese cultural heritage.
Source: metmuseum.org
en.wikipedia.org
