Antique Japanese Suzuribako Ink Box, 1912 - 1926 (Taisho) | SKU: 26M-031

Japanese Suzuribako Ink Stone Box | Vintage Desk Organizer & Jewelry Box, 1912-1926 (Taisho), SKU 26M-031

A complete Taisho-era calligraphy writing set in richly figured burl wood -- an exceptionally rare find for collectors of Japanese antique desk accessories.

A suzuribako is a traditional Japanese box crafted to house the suzuri -- the ink stone used for grinding sumi ink -- along with the other essential tools of the shodo (calligraphy) or painting desk. This handcrafted Japanese antique writing set dates to the Taisho period (1912-1926) and presents as a remarkably complete ensemble: a lidded outer box with a lacquered red interior tray, a fitted inner tray that cradles the original stone ink grinder, and a pair of small pull-out drawers below -- likely used to store brushes, ink sticks, or other writing implements. The exterior is veneered in a dramatic swirling burl hardwood, possibly kaki (persimmon) or a similarly figured Japanese timber, finished to a deep reddish-brown that glows warmly in natural light. Thin inlaid banding traces the edges of every panel, lending the piece a refined, jewel-box quality consistent with the higher-grade desk sets produced during the Taisho era's flourishing craft culture.

Today this vintage Japanese writing box makes a stunning home office accent or desktop organizer -- the spacious lidded compartment holds rings, watches, or folded notes, while the small drawers are perfectly sized for paper clips, nibs, or earrings. Placed on a writing desk or bedside table, it brings an unmistakable wabi-sabi aesthetic and Japandi style warmth to any minimalist decor scheme. The included original ink stone adds scholarly gravitas as a standalone display object. Whether arranged as a living room accent or given as a unique gift for collectors and Japanophiles, this rare complete suzuribako set is a conversation piece that carries a century of artistic heritage.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1912-1926 (Taisho)
• Material: Boldly figured burl hardwood veneer, possibly kaki (persimmon); lacquered red interior panel; original stone ink grinder (suzuri) included
• Use: Suzuribako -- a calligraphy and writing desk set housing an ink stone, with additional drawers for brushes and writing tools
• Modern Use: Desktop jewelry box or ring dish; home office organizer for small stationery items; decorative accent piece displaying the ink stone on a shelf or writing desk
• Features: Lidded main compartment with fitted black-lacquered interior tray; original suzuri (ink grinding stone) seated within the tray; removable red-lacquered inner lid panel; multiple small pull-out drawers with round metal knob pulls; thin inlaid edge banding throughout; compact upright footprint
• Dimensions: 6"W x 10"D x 7"H
• Condition: Excellent -- all components present including the original ink stone; age-consistent wear to the red lacquer panel and minor patina to the burl exterior consistent with Taisho-era use

A rare and complete Japanese antique writing set -- the suzuribako at its finest, bringing the quiet elegance of Taisho-era craftsmanship to any modern home or collector's display.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage and antique items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.