Japanese

Symbolizing longevity, this intricately carved turtle inro possesses carefully concealed seams that indicate it separates into four sections. Inro—cases for holding personal seals and other small items— were often made of lacquered wood. Japanese men wore inro as an accessory, attaching them to their sashes, or obis, with silk cord that connected to a netsuke, or miniature toggle. In this case, the netsuke is an ivory cup for drinking sake, an alcoholic beverage.