Beautiful Rosewood case (probably Kiseru case but possibly a brush case) with a matching inro and plain Ojime bead.
The case and inro are beautifully carved with birds and what looks like Cherry blossom. (Stylized)
Superb conditioned, quality carvings and lovely wood combine to make this a very attractive set.
Both pieces are signed in Mother of Pearl roundels on the bottom of the cases.
Google translate thinks 'Sun, Moon' for one and 'years or time' for the other. I couldn't comment!
Cord looks original or at least vintage.
Tabako-ire" (たばこ入れ) refers to a traditional Japanese tobacco pouch or container, often worn as a sagemono (suspended item) from the obi (kimono belt). These pouches were used to hold loose tobacco and were popular during the Edo period, with various styles and materials used for their construction.
Key aspects of Tabako-ire:
Sagemono:
Tabako-ire were typically part of a larger category of objects called sagemono, which were suspended from the obi and included items like inro (medicine boxes).
Materials:
They were crafted from a variety of materials, including fabric, leather, wood, and lacquer.
Types:
Sage-tabako-ire were designed to be worn hanging, while kaichu-tabako-ire were meant to be carried inside the kimono.
Tonkotsu:
Sturdier versions made of wood, metal, or other hard materials were called tonkotsu and were favored for outdoor use to protect the tobacco from the elements.
Netsuke and Ojime:
Tabako-ire were often paired with decorative accessories like netsuke (small sculptures) and ojime (beads) that served both functional and aesthetic purposes, enhancing the overall appearance and status of the wearer.
Kiseru have been part of Japanese culture since at least the late 1500s.
They became popular during the Edo and Meiji periods, serving as a status symbol and a way for men to express their individual taste.
Kiseru were traditionally used for smoking finely shredded tobacco called kizami.
The kiseru and its associated smoking accessories evolved alongside the Japanese incense ceremony.
While kiseru are not as commonly used for smoking today as they once were, they remain an important part of Japanese craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Antique kiseru sets are highly sought after by collectors, and a few artisans still preserve the tradition of making these pipes.