JOKASAI: A FINE GOLD LACQUER FOUR-CASE INRO WITH PIGEONS IN A PLUM TREEBy Yamada Jokasai, signed Jokasai 常嘉齋Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The four-case inro of wide rectangular form, magnificently lacquered, bearing a lustrous kinji ground, decorated in predominantly gold takamaki-e with silver and red highlights, as well as some kirikane and gold hiramaki-e, the front showing a group of five pigeons perched on a gnarled plum tree, huddled close together in the cold, the blooming plum blossoms with some buds indicating that spring is about to arrive. The verso continuing the image and showing a branch with further plum blossoms and buds. The interior cases of rich nashiji with gold fundame rims. Signed underneath JOKASAI.With an agate ojime and an unusual metal manju netsuke with floral décor and applied with rubies and other hardstones.HEIGHT 8.7 cmCondition: Good condition with minor wear and light surface scratches. Some minor touch-ups to the side and bottom case.Normally blooming from as early as mid-February, while it is still winter, the plum or ume blossom is revered and celebrated as endurance through adversity, the resilience of life, and faith that life will regenerate.