Antique Japanese Meiji Era Suzuribako Calligraphy Tansu Chestnut 3 Drawer 13"

This is antique Japanese suzuribako from the Meiji Era (c. 1880's). This suzuribako (portable calligraphy tansu) has two drawers and a lidded top section, made of solid Chestnut wood. The metal hardware is hand forged iron.

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. Chestnut wood was a wood of choice for such a chest being strong as well as having a beautiful grain pattern.

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. The lidded top swings open to reveal the area where the ink stone was once housed. The lidded top opens by pushing a side button and closes securely when the lid is closed. The top handle is still very secure and provides a convenient way to transport this chest. All drawers open and close smoothly. The hinged lid swings open and closes easily.

All drawers open smoothly and the lidded top opens/closes with ease. Along with a century old warm patina this suzuribako tansu re chest remains in fine original antique condition.