Description
This item is the Katanabako (刀箱), which has been used for storing Japanese swords. Judging from the dimensions of this box, we believe this box fits with Tanto (短刀, short blade). This Katanabako has a decorative appearance painted entirely in black lacquer and decorated with the Makie (蒔絵) technique. The Makie is a typical Japanese lacquer art technique developed uniquely in Japan for about 1,200 years. Firstly, it needs to draw a picture with lacquer on the surface with a thin brush. Next, sprinkle the gold powder from above to show the pattern before the lacquer hardens. This technique makes a gorgeous and elegant look to works, as seen in this Katanabako.
The motifs depicted on this Katanabako are plants that have auspicious meanings. Three types of plants are depicted: The large plant depicted on the lid of the box is the Ume (梅, Japanese apricot blossom) tree, and a pine tree is growing from the base of this tree. The sides of the box are decorated with Ume flowers, bamboo leaves, and pine needles. The combination of these plants is called the Shou-Chiku-Bai (松竹梅) and is one of the classic Japanese designs. Several theories about its meaning are as follows: longevity, power of perseverance, vitality, etcetera. Even today, it is widely cherished as a lucky charm in Japan. In addition, the pine needle pattern itself has been treated as an auspicious pattern because the roots of the two leaves are firmly connected and will not separate even if the leaves fall. Shoguns and Daimyos set their own patterns in the Edo period and called it Sadame Mon (定め紋). Tokugawa Tsunayoshi (1680-1709), the 5th Shogun of the Edo Shogunate, used the Matsuba design for his Sadame Mon.
If the object is just for storing objects, a simpler plain box could serve things as a storage case. However, the fact that such a luxurious and beautiful box was prepared means that the person who used this box in the past found his Japanese sword to be stored in this box to be of more value as a practical item. We estimate he was also trying to increase its authority. Whether the things you would store in this box is a Japanese sword or not, we hope you could use it to keep your valuable items. Of course, enjoying this Katanabako as an interior in your room is also a good idea.
*As this item is an antique, please check each photo and ensure its condition.
*Please note that this is an example to show how fit this box to store a Tanto sword. The Tanto in the picture in NOT INCLUDED in this item.
【About us】
Samurai Museum is located in Tokyo, Japan, exhibiting antique artifacts related to the Samurai history. Samurai Museum Shop is the place for those who are interested in Japanese culture and craftsmanship. We deal with antique Samurai swords/armor, traditional crafts made in Japan and so on.
【Payment method】
We accept payment through Stripe (Credit card), PayPal, Apple Pay or ChromePay, all of which are secure payment methods. Also, you don’t need to make an account on Stripe for the checkout. If you prefer other payment method, please contact us. You may either pay in JPY, USD, AUD, CAD, EUR, CHF or GBP. The price is set in Japanese Yen. Prices in other currencies are automatically calculated based on the latest exchange rate.
【Shipping duration】
We normally ship via EMS (Express Mail Service) provided by Japan Post. It usually takes at least 5-14 days to deliver the package after you place an order. Time of delivery is estimated as accurately as possible by the carrier but does not take into account any delays beyond our control such as by inclement weather, post office holiday seasons.
We offer Free International Shipping as long as we can ship your order by EMS. If you prefer other shipping carriers, please contact us.
We will inform you of the order’s tracking number via email. Please make sure you fill out your valid email address correctly.
【How to make sure the condition】
Please keep in mind that what you are going to purchase is an antique item. We uploaded high resolution photos for you to check its condition thoroughly. If you like to see more photos with different angles, please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to send them to you so that you can make informed decision.
It is essential for us to know that you are happy with your choice of antique item and we are prepared to use the best of our ability to serve you.
Would you like see some more antique items for sale? Please check the link below. We hope you can find your favorite item.
https://www.samuraimuseum.jp/shop/product-category/antique/
