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Japanese Lacquer Writing Box, Suzuribako, Edo Period, 18th Century, Japan

About the Item

An exceptionally fine and unusual Japanese lacquer writing implements box, suzuribako, in the form of a zither, koto, Edo Period, 18th century, Japan. With a modern wood storage box, tomobako. The small suzuribako exquisitely crafted in lacquer in the form of a traditional Japanese instrument called a koto, a thirteen stringed harp or zither. The flush fitting lid, inrobuta, of tapered shape and stunningly decorated in faux bois maki-e lacquer expertly painted to simulate an attractive contrasting wood grain, and topped with silver strings and floral shaped silver mounts. One end of the koto with an applied a mixed metal menuki featuring a floral motif. Both ends of the cover with additional lacquer design simulating hishi patterned brocade. Three sides of the suzuribako decorated with hirame-fun, irregular flakes of gold sheet, imitating shagreen. The last side decorated with scene of blooming cherry with applied gold cherry blossoms and an applied silver shiba-gaki, traditional brushwood and bamboo fence, in the foreground. The interior of the suzuribako decorated with a dense nashiji ground, and fitted with an inkstone and a water dropper in the form of a helmet, kabuto, crafted of copper and silver. The suzuribako is supported on four small bracket feet. The underside of the box finished in nashiji lacquer.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 1.5 in (3.81 cm)Width: 8 in (20.32 cm)Depth: 3 in (7.62 cm)
  • Style:
    Edo (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    18th Century
  • Condition:
    Repaired: Evidence of glue repair to one bracket foot. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor fading. In very good condition for age. One bracket foot with slight repair. Missing one small silver floral mount, as seen in photos. The silver tarnished. The inkstone showing signs of use. The water dropper tarnished.
  • Seller Location:
    Austin, TX
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU894734489252
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