Antique Japanese Suzuri Ink Stone W/ Presentation Box Brush & Sumi Ink Stick

This is an antique Japanese full sized ink stone called a Suzuri (硯). It is made of slate and was likely used during the Taisho era or early 1900's. This stone was well used by a writer, poet, artist or merchant who would have used it daily in work or practice.

To make ink pour a small amount of water on to the high flat part of the suzuri. Holding the  ink stick that we have included vertically and rub the stick against the wet stone in small circles. The stone will grind away the solid ink creating liquid ink! Add more water to make more ink, the more you grind, the darker the ink. As the ink builds up it flows down the slope into the suzuri's low basin collecting there for use in writing or drawing. Add more water to lighten the ink into beautiful shades of gray.

Having been well used and well loved this stone and box remain in fine condition and is still in prefect working order, ready to grind sumi ink sticks. The stone measures 6 3/4" by 4" by 3/4" (17 x 10 x 2 cm). The beautiful hardwood box is about 9 1/2" x 6" x 1 1/2" and may be hungmu blackwood or other Asian rosewood. Fude brush is included.