Antique Japanese Meiji Era C1880 Suzuribako Calligraphy Chest Sugi Wood Tansu

This is a Japanese antique mid-Meiji (1880) Japanese suzuribako. This suzuribako (portable calligraphy tansu) has a lidded top section and two lower drawers, made of solid sugi wood (Japanese cedar). The metal hardware is all 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. This chest still has its original warm century old patina. Made with wooden pin construction (see picture 10).

The method of construction as well as the forged iron work on this chest dates it to the 1890's. 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 means of a side hook and loop (see picture 10) which holds it securely when lifted and transported. The top handle is still very secure and provides a convenient way to transport this chest. The drawers open and close smoothly. The double hinged lidded top swings open and closes easily.

Along with its century old black lacquer exterior, this chest remains in very good condition. This Suzuribako chest measures 9 1/2" long by 6'' wide by 8" tall (24 x 15 x 20 cm). A very warm accent for your home or office. Great to hold pens, as well as, remote controls for the TV and stereo.