Description
A Fubako (文箱/文筥) is a kind of box. It has been used to store letters, papers, or books, and it is also used to deliver documents to the other party. While we judged this box as a Fubako, it is also possible that its former owners used it to store other items, such as stationery or jewelry.
The outer box has a simple look. Its entire surface is painted with black lacquer, and the top surface is decorated with vermilion lacquer. What is unique about this work is that this box also contains a small box. And this two-tiered box is decorated with gorgeous decorations using 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 lacquer box.
Two types of auspicious plants are designed on this inner box: Matsu (松, pine tree) and Ume (梅, Japanese apricot blossom). We believe these motifs were designed as elements of a Japanese classical theme called the Shouchikubai (松竹梅). It combines pine trees, bamboo, and Japanese apricot blossoms. 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, two different family crests are depicted. One is composed of cranes called the Mukai Duru (対い鶴). The Tsuru pattern has been treated as an auspicious design that represents longevity. This motif, which has been widely used in clothing and furniture since ancient times, is also widely known as a promising pattern due to its beauty and auspiciousness. The other family crest is a kind of Heiji/Heishi (瓶子) design called the Mitsumori Heishi (三つ守瓶子). A Heiji is a container for holding alcohol and pouring it into a cup. It has an elongated shape, with a swollen upper part and a narrow lower part, with a small mouth. Since the early modern period, after Sake became popular, Heijis were increasingly used as tools for rituals and celebrations. It is said that it was incorporated into family crest designs due to its religious significance.
*Please note that there is a relatively huge crack on the back of the wooden box.
*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. 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.
*Please keep in mind that due to the spread of COVID-19, there might be possible delays in delivery. 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 Fubako 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/
