The Inro was used to carry items like seals, medicine, and other small essentials. Made up of lacquered compartments, and hung from a cord suspended from a kimono it was widely used during the Edo period (1603-1868).  Skilled artisans worked with precious materials such as coral, agate and stag horn to create intricate decorations for Inros, featuring layers of lacquer with gold. The inside compartments often feature a gold maki-e lacquer finish. Famous Inro artists include the Kajikawa family, Hara Yoyusai and others.  Inros were often gifted by Royalty and Damiyo’s as a token of appreciation.

A Japanese tobacco pouch (tabako-ire) is a small, leather or fabric pouch used to carry loose tobacco and accessories. They are often compact and decorative, featuring traditional Japanese designs, motifs and symbols. The materials used range from woven fabrics, leather, ray skin, coral, agate, stag horn and embroidered designs.