Description: This is a 134 year old antique Japanese suzuribako from the mid Meiji Era (c. 1889). This suzuribako (portable calligraphy tansu) is made of solid kiri (paulownia) wood and has a nice configuration of three drawers with a lidded top section. It is signed by the original owner, Kaemon Kashima, on the bottom (see pictures 7 & 8) as well as on the interior of some drawers (see picture 9). It is also dated: 22nd year of Meiji (1889). It could be several years earlier as this was the date of purchase.Suzuribako were used as portable accounting chests (the forerunner of the attache' case). Also known as a calligraphy chest as it housed an ink stone, brushes, ink stick, and paper. Kiri (paulownia) was the wood of choice being strong and light weight. This chest still has its original century old patina. The method of construction (all wooden pin construction - see picture 16) as well as the forged iron handles on this chest dates it to the mid Meiji Edo Era (c. 1889) or even earlier. This chest was used to hold calligraphy and writing materials, as well as, money and valuables. The lidded top section was used for the storage and use of suzuri (ink stone) with brushes (not included). The lidded top swings open to reveal the area where the ink stone was once housed (see pictures 11 - 13). The lidded top opens by pushing a side button (see pictures 14 & 15) and closes securely when the lid is closed . The top handle is still very secure and provides a convenient way to transport this chest (see picture 2). All drawers open and close smoothly. The tripple hinged lidded top swings open and closes easily. The lock operates with ease with the use of the key seen in pictures 19 & 20. Along with a century old warm patina, other than some minor damage on the interior of the smaller drawer (see picture 17) this chest remains in good original antique condition. This Suzuribako chest measures 7 1/2" wide by 9 '' tall by 11" deep (19 x 23 x 28cm). A very warm accent for your home or office. Great to hold pens, as well as, remote controls for the TV and stereo. Please enjoy the enlarged pictures to get a full appreciation of the fine kiri wood and its century and a half old original patina.You'll love it, I guarantee it.........If you purchase this item and are not completely delighted with it, you may return it for a no questions asked refund within 30 days of receipt.Sailerking and the Shogun's Gallery of Portland, Oregon have been in the Japanese antique business for over 38 years, and highly value our customers. Satisfaction Guarantee: All items are carefully described and photographed. If not completely delighted with any item it may be returned in original condition for refund of purchase price, less actual shipping cost. Most items listed are antiques, and as such may have an expected amount of wear from normal use. We do not sell items with major flaws without mentioning it in the listing. See photos and descriptions for condition. Returns must be shipped back within 30 days of receipt. Buyer assumes all shipping fees. If you have specific questions about the item or condition, please feel free to ask before bidding and we will make every effort to respond promptly.International buyers are responsible for any customs duties, taxes, etc. imposed by the buyer's home country.
Price: 460 USD
Location: Portland, Oregon
End Time: 2024-01-30T02:16:00.000Z
Shipping Cost: 0 USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
Restocking Fee: No
Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer
All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 30 Days
Refund will be given as: Money Back
Primary Material: Wood
Type: Boxes
Color: Brown
Original/Reproduction: Original
Region of Origin: Japan
Age: 1889
