Title: Japanese lacquer box set- Akikusa Zu
Description
Bunko (文庫) is a type of box, also known as Bunko Bako. It has traditionally been used to store books, personal belongings, or valuables. Since ancient times, Japanese people have customarily placed essential items in boxes. Over time, they developed various techniques to beautifully decorate these containers.
The Suzuri Bako (硯箱) is a type of box used to store writing instruments, such as brushes, ink sticks (sumi), and inkstones (suzuri). Some people also used it to keep small items like a knife or a calendar. Suzuri Bako is often made of lacquered wood and decorated using traditional Japanese techniques. Among these, Makie (蒔絵)—a method of sprinkling gold or silver powder onto wet lacquer—is particularly popular. Artisans developed highly refined skills to create these intricate designs.
Inside the Suzuri Bako, you will find the suzuri (硯, inkstone), which is placed in the center. If you have a sumi (墨, inkstick), you can rub it on the surface of the inkstone with a small amount of water to produce ink for Japanese calligraphy.
Above the inkstone is a bunchin (文鎮, paperweight) decorated with a chrysanthemum motif, which complements the overall refined design of the set. In Japan, the chrysanthemum symbolizes longevity and rejuvenation. It is closely associated with autumn and noble elegance, and has long been revered in Japanese culture. Notably, it is also used as the crest of the Imperial family.
On the left side of the box, there is another bunchin featuring traditional plant motifs. On the right side, a fude (筆, writing brush)—the primary tool used in Japanese calligraphy—is placed, completing the essential elements of this beautifully crafted set.
This beautifully arranged set is not only practical for writing but can also be displayed as a piece of interior decor. Its refined craftsmanship and elegant design bring a sense of luxury and traditional Japanese beauty to any room. It also makes a thoughtful and special gift for anyone interested in Japanese culture or calligraphy.
The overall design theme of this suzuri bako enters around autumn grasses (秋草, akikusa). On the front side of the lid, two traditional autumn plants from the “Seven Grasses of Autumn” (秋の七草, Aki no Nanakusa) are depicted—susuki (薄, Japanese silver grass) and fujibakama (藤袴, thoroughwort). The gently swaying plumes of susuki and the small clustered blossoms of fujibakama together create an elegant image of autumn in Japan.
Fujibakama has been cherished in Japan since ancient times as a symbol of autumn. It is known not only for its delicate and sweet fragrance but also for its poetic and cultural significance. The name “fujibakama” means “wisteria trousers,” referring to the way the clustered flowers resemble the layers of traditional court attire. In the Heian period (794–1185), noblewomen were said to scent their garments with this plant. Fujibakama is often referenced in classical literature and poetry, adding to its nostalgic and refined image.
Susuki, on the other hand, is one of the most iconic plants of autumn in Japan. Its golden plumes contrast beautifully with its green leaves, enhancing the seasonal beauty. As autumn deepens, the flower heads open and sway in the wind, transforming fields into golden seas of grass. This dynamic change in appearance is one of the visual highlights of the season. In the language of flowers, susuki symbolizes strong vitality and the bonds between people, reflecting its role as both a seasonal emblem and a symbol of human connection.
On the reverse side of the lid, continuing from the autumn grass motif on the front, there is a charming depiction of a child playing a flute while riding an ox. This scene represents the sixth stage of the famous “Ten Ox-Herding Pictures” (十牛図, Jūgyūzu), a traditional series of Zen paintings illustrating the stages of spiritual enlightenment.
In this allegory, the ox symbolizes the ideal or true self, and the child represents the seeker. After a long journey of searching, the seeker finally finds the ox and is on the way home. At this sixth stage, known as “Riding the Ox Home” (騎牛帰家, Kigyu Kika), the child no longer needs to control the ox, and instead plays the flute peacefully while riding. This symbolizes a state of inner freedom and harmony—a milestone in one’s spiritual journey.
During the late Edo period (1603–1868), versions of this scene were often depicted in a more accessible and cheerful style and used as decorative motifs to express wishes for a happy and fulfilling life for children. Many people during this era likely drew life lessons from these illustrations. Even today, the “Ten Ox-Herding Pictures” serve as a timeless guide for those reflecting on life’s path and personal growth.
Looking again at the front of the suzuri bako, we also see what appears to be a quail (鶉, uzura). In Japanese culture, the quail is known as a seasonal symbol of autumn and is frequently featured in traditional painting and crafts. When shown alongside autumn grasses, it adds harmony and consistency to the overall design. The two quails sitting close together may also symbolize marital harmony, peace, and companionship—expressing gentle and affectionate connections between individuals.
*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.
*As this item is an antique, please check each photo and ensure its condition.
(Bunko)
(Suzuribako)
【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.
【Antique Japanese item and Export process】
After receiving the full payment from you, we will apply for its export permit from the Board of Education to legally export the item to other countries. It normally takes around 2 to 4 weeks to receive this permit. And we would like you to expect at least 1.0 – 1.5 months for your order to arrive at your given address after you ordered.
【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.
We will inform you of the order’s tracking number via email. Please make sure you fill out your valid email address correctly.
*If you like to make sure if EMS shipping is available to your country, please contact us.
【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/
