The shinobue is a side-blown flute widely played in Japan to accompany kabuki theater or festivities at Shinto or Buddhist temples. This exquisite example was crafted by the third-generation maker of the Shinryu lineage, a court-associated family of flute makers active in Kyoto from the late Edo period through the early 20th century. The flute’s elegant maki-e lacquer, depicting natural scenery, reflects the instrument’s refinement and the cultural sophistication of its original owner. We were p