Description<\/strong><\/span> \u00a0 The Suzuri (\u786f, inkstone), Sumi (\u58a8, inkstick), Fude (\u7b46, brush) and Bunchin (\u6587\u93ae, paperweight) are stored in this Suzuri Bako. You could use these tools for Japanese calligraphy. You could also display this Suzuri Bako 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.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0On the back side of the lid and the inside of the box, the surfaces are decorated with the Nashiji Nuri (\u68a8\u5b50\u5730\u5857\/\u68a8\u5730\u5857) technique, which is a kind of Makie (\u8494\u7d75) method. This surface treatment method creates a rough texture by creating fine unevenness on the surface of the metal. They also come in varying degrees of gloss, including glossy, semi-gloss, and matte. According to a theory, it was invented in the Kamakura (\u938c\u5009) period (1185-1333), and in the Edo period, various techniques were devised to color the products.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0Regarding the design, the figure of Samurai warriers riding on a horse, which is called Bajo (\u99ac\u4e0a, on a horse) Musha (\u6b66\u8005, Samurai warrier), is depicted on the front lid. Judging from their wearing luxurious armors, they seem to be a high-ranked Samurai. Also, they have a large bow (\u5f13, Yumi) and arrows (\u77e2, Ya). The bow and arrow called Yumi-Ya (\u5f13\u77e2) was once one of the classical primary weapons for Samurai. Additionally, it was believed that the Yumi-Ya would exorcize evil spirits in the house. And in the Edo period, small bow and arrows were given to baby boys as their first New Year\u2019s gift in hope for them growing to be a respectable Samurai warrier.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0The back lid and the inside of the box depict a plant called Kakitsubata (\u675c\u82e5\/\u71d5\u5b50\u82b1, Iris laevigata or rabbit-ear iris).\u00a0Kakitsubata flowers color the waterside during their short flowering time; Japanese people have loved this elegant appearance since ancient times. This flower has been treated as a motif in various arts, such as poems or pictures. There is a famous collection of Japanese poems that is called the Ise Monogatari (\u4f0a\u52e2\u7269\u8a9e, The Tales of Ise). One of the well-known episodes in this book treats the Kakitsubata. The plot of the story is as follows. The protagonist no longer felt comfortable living in the city and decided to go to the eastern country, which was the countryside at that time. He left the town with his friends, and during the journey, one of them found that Kakitsubatas were blooming at the waterside. The protagonist was requested to write a poem using characters of the Kakitsubata (it is written as \u304b\u304d\u3064\u3070\u305f in Hiragana character), and he responded to this challenging request. He composed a nostalgic poem, and it made them feel homesick for their home or families.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0On the inkstone, it seems a tree of peach (\u6843, Momo) is designed. In ancient times, people considered peach as a sacred tree and would exterminate evil spirits. It is said that there was a custom of eliminating evil spirits with bows and peach branches made from peach trees. According to a Chinese legend, a fairy ate peaches and extended her 3,000 year old age. Based on this folklore, this fruit represents longevity. Also, there is a famous Japanese fairy tale called Momotarou (\u6843\u592a\u90ce , Momo means peach in Japanese); this is the main character\u2019s name; this is the story about the conquest of ogres by him. The peach pattern symbolizes good luck and victory due to this folklore. Also, in the Kojiki \u53e4\u4e8b\u8a18 , regarded as the oldest history book in existenc e in Japan), it is written that peaches were growing on the border that separates this world from the next world. It gave meaning: resuscitation for this motif.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0The shape of the paperweight is a Ichou (\u9280\u674f, Ginkgo Biloba) leave. This plant contains lots of water; therefore, it is fire-resistant. It does not quickly die even if flames burn it. Because of its strong vitality and longevity, the Ichou pattern has been considered a good-luck motif. In Japan, Ichou trees can often be found in shrines. People worship it as the Goshinboku (\u3054\u795e\u6728, tree of worship) and treat it respectfully. Also, many families use this plant pattern for their family crests. In Japanese, there is another word that has the same pronunciation as the Ichou (\u9280\u674f). It is written as \u201c\u7570\u671d\u201d and means a foreign country. Based on this common pronunciation, people thought the Ichou (\u9280\u674f) pattern showed the joy of welcoming honored guests from overseas.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0As for the inkstick, we estimate its surface depicts a Chinese calligraphy and painting. There seem to be a watchtower-like building in front and mountains and rivers in the distance. These motifs are painted white and gold. Also, the tree grown near the building is colored blue beautifully. When you enjoy the calligraphy, you can just add a\u00a0few drops of water and rub the ink stick in a circular direction slowly.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span>\u00a0*Makie\u2026\u2026A 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. \u00a0*Raden\u2026\u2026 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.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0*As this item is an antique, please check each photo and ensure its condition.<\/span><\/p>\n \u3010About us\u3011<\/span><\/strong>
\n\u00a0The Suzuri Bako (\u786f\u7bb1) 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 (\u8494\u7d75) and the *Raden (\u87ba\u923f) are popular ornamental techniques for this kind of item. Artisans developed various skills to decorate boxes.<\/span><\/p>\n
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\n\u00a0Samurai 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. <\/span><\/p>\n
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