Title: Japanese lacquer box- Akikusa Zu
Description
The Suzuri Bako (硯箱) is a type of box in which writing instruments such as writing brushes, ink sticks, or inkstone are stored. Also, some people use it to put a small knife or calendar. The Suzuri Bako is often made from lacquered wood. The *Makie (蒔絵) and the *Raden (螺鈿) are popular ornamental techniques for this kind of item. Artisans developed various skills to decorate boxes.
The Suzuri (硯, inkstone) is stored in this Suzuri Bako. If you have the Sumi (墨, inkstick), you could use this Suzuri for Japanese calligraphy. You can also display it to enjoy as a part of the interior decoration in your room. This box is decorated with the traditional Japanese technique; it would make an elegant and luxurious atmosphere. Or, it would be a special gift for someone who enjoys calligraphy.
The theme of the design on this Suzuribako is centered around Akikusa (秋草、autumn grasses) motifs. The front side of the lid features a prominent depiction of 萩 (hagi, Japanese bush clover). Hagi is a member of the legume family, and its flowers are divided into clusters of three, with round leaves split into three smaller leaflets. In this design, the leaves are adorned with gold, and each flower petal is outlined in gold, creating a beautiful, delicate effect.
Hagi is a plant that symbolizes autumn in Japan and has long been loved by the Japanese people. Not only admired for its beauty, it has also been used for practical purposes such as food and medicine. The kanji for hagi, which includes “秋” (autumn) under the “grass” radical, reflects how closely this plant is associated with the season of autumn in Japanese culture. This indicates that hagi was an important plant for the Japanese and was considered a symbol of autumn. Additionally, hagi is also seen as a symbol of women and is often paired with the deer in traditional poetry. The plant blooms during the harvest season, such as rice, millet, and barley, making it a symbol of abundance and prosperity.
The background surrounding the hagi is painted in black lacquer, coated with fine gold particles, adding depth and richness to the design. The dynamic depiction of hagi creates a sense of movement, as if the viewer is drawn into a larger world. It is both decorative and evocative, pulling the viewer’s attention to the deeper meaning behind the image.
On the back of the lid, another autumn grass motif is featured. Based on the shape of its seed heads, it is likely ススキ (suzuki, Japanese silver grass). Suzuki is a well-known symbol of autumn, with its golden flower heads and green leaves contrasting beautifully in the season. As autumn deepens, the grass blooms and the golden panicles open, transforming the landscape into a pale golden sea of grass. This change in appearance is another highlight of autumn’s beauty. The flower language of suzuki symbolizes strong vitality and the bonds between people.
Finally, the 文鎮 (paperweight) features a unique design shaped like a 松 (matsu, pine tree). The pine is considered a sacred tree in Japanese culture, symbolizing longevity and resilience. The twisted trunk and sharp leaves of the pine have been incorporated into various designs throughout Japanese history. As an evergreen tree that grows robustly, the pine has long been regarded as a lucky tree, appearing in numerous monuments and designs throughout Japanese life. The pine is not just a type of wood, but a symbolic tree that has been cherished by the Japanese for centuries.
*Makie……A typical Japanese lacquer art technique developed uniquely in Japan for about 1200 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.
*Raden…… It is a kind of decorative technique that is often used for traditional craftworks. It uses the pearl part of seashells and puts it into the engraved surface of lacquer or wood. Thanks to its iridescent luster, it gives a luxurious look to works.
*As this item is an antique, please check each photo and ensure its condition.
【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.
We offer Free International Shipping as long as we can ship your order by EMS. If you prefer other shipping carriers, please contact us.
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【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/
