Lacquer Inrō with Waterbirds and Ox-shaped Netsuke in a Box - Totoya Hokkei

A refined woodblock print by Totoya Hokkei depicting a traditional lacquer inrō and an ox-shaped netsuke, from the Spring Rain Collection.

This woodblock print by Totoya Hokkei originates from the Spring Rain Collection (Harusame shū), a series of surimono commissioned by poetry clubs in the early nineteenth century. Surimono were privately published prints, often distributed among members of literary circles to celebrate special occasions or seasonal changes. They are characterised by their high production quality, frequently employing techniques such as embossing, metallic pigments, and fine paper.

The composition presents a still life arrangement of personal accessories. An inrō, a traditional Japanese tiered container for small items, rests within an open wooden box. The inrō features a design of waterbirds amidst stylised waves, rendered in a muted palette that suggests the appearance of lacquerware. Beside the box sits an ox-shaped netsuke, the toggle used to secure the inrō to a sash. The inclusion of these objects reflects the refined tastes of the Edo period literati, who valued the aesthetic qualities of functional items.

Hokkei, a student of Katsushika Hokusai, demonstrates his technical skill through the precise line work and the subtle application of colour. The print includes calligraphic inscriptions, which are typical of the surimono format, linking the visual imagery to the literary interests of the original patrons. The composition is balanced, focusing on the textures of the wooden box, the smooth surface of the lacquer, and the organic form of the carved netsuke. This work provides a glimpse into the material culture of the period, capturing the quiet elegance of everyday objects elevated through artistic representation. The print remains a fine example of the collaborative nature of Japanese printmaking, where artists, poets, and carvers worked in concert to produce works of exceptional quality for a discerning audience.