Antique Japanese Meiji Era C1880 Keyaki Wood Suzuribako Calligraphy Tansu

This is a 150 year old antique Japanese suzuribako from the early Meiji Era (c. 1870's). This (portable calligraphy tansu) has three drawers and a lidded top section, made of solid Keyaki (zelkova) wood. The metal hardware is hand forged iron. There is calligraphy writing on the sides and bottom of the drawers in largely illegible script that likely indicates an original owner and possible subsequent owners over time. Suzuribako were used as portable accounting chests (the forerunner of the attaché' case). Also known as a calligraphy chest as it housed an ink stone (suzuri), brushes, ink stick, and paper. Keyaki (zelkova) wood was the wood of choice for such a chest being strong as well as having a beautiful grain pattern. This chest still has its original hand rubbed lacquer finish over persimmon tannin stain. Wood pin construction can be seen in the photos. 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 simultaneously pulling the top handle toward the button and at the same time pulling the top handle toward it. It 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 double hinged lidded top swings open and closes easily. Along with a century old warm patina this chest remains in fine original antique condition. This tansu chest measures 7 1/4" wide by 8'' tall by 12 1/2" deep (18.5 x 20.5 x 32 cm). 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 wood and its century old original patina.