Antique Japanese Meiji c1881 Sugi Wood Suzuribako Ballot Box Tansu Chest 15”

This is a 140 year old antique Japanese suzuribako from the Meiji Era c.1881. This suzuribako (portable calligraphy tansu) has two drawers and a slot most likely indicating that this was used as a ballot box. It's made of solid Sugi (Japanese cedar) wood. The metal hardware is hand forged iron.

Markings = calligraphy on  bottom including date made or first owner - Meiji Year 13

Length = 14.5"

Width = 8"

Height = 9"

Weight = 5lbs 14oz

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. 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.

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 quadruple hinged lidded top swings open and closes easily.

All drawers open smoothly and the lidded top opens/closes with ease. Along with a century old warm pa