Fine Japanese Lacquered Inro by Kajikawa

A Japanese four-case lacquer inro by a member of Kajikawa family circa 19th century (late Edo to early Meiji period). It depicts a nocturnal scenery of a meandering stream surrounded by bush clovers, where a full moon is reflected in the water. It was masterfully decorated in gold and silver maki-e using a combination of techniques including takamakie, togidashi and kirigane as well as aogai (abalone shell) inlays. The stream was set between the slightly elevated banks, adding to this piece a already strong three-dimensional composition. The interior was decorated in gold nashiji. It was signed on the bottom "Kajikawa Zou" (made by Kajikawa and a pot seal with "Ei" in Kanji in the center. In one of the compartment, there is a katakana mark, appears to be a name, possibly the owner.
Kajikawa clan was one of the most famous lacquer artisanal family established in the 17th century. Many well known members over the generations produced lacquer art in different formats, but two third were signed only with the family name. It is therefore not possible to pinpoint the exact author of this piece.
Provenance: This inro was purchased as lot 349 in Christie's New York sale Japanese Works of Art. January 17th, 1980.