Suzuri Bako or Kakesuzuri (Writing Box)
Here is a nice example of a Japanese writing box. These were used, as the name implies, to store the necessary items for writing as well as providing document storage. Here you would find a suzuri (inkstone), sumi (ink), fude (brushes), paper, paperweights, hanko (personal seal), as well as any other things related to writing. What is interesting to me is how the original Kakesuzuri chests (of which this is not one) influenced the original funa dansu (sea chests). Another interesting note is how kakesuzuri persisted as the name for this type of chest, and was changed depending on what region you were in to suzuri bako.
This piece got my attention because it was the first time I came across a chest with some true provenance. This is signed and dated by the maker, Kimura Magoemon, in 1880, and lists who it was made for, Sakamoto-san of Sekimura. Sugoi, ne! With a little TLC this could be a nice inclusion to your collection. The price is cheap, $250.00, but the auction is up in mere hours. Going once, going twice…
Tags: Funa Dansu, Kakesuzuri, Suzuri Bako