Antique Japanese Suzuri Bako Ink Box, 1927 - 1945 (Early Showa) | SKU: 26M-709-1

Japanese Suzuri Bako Ink Box | Antique Jewelry Box & Desktop Organizer, 1927-1945 (Early Showa), SKU 26M-709-1

A heavily iron-mounted handcrafted Japanese suzuri-bako with a hinged lid and pull-out drawers -- a rare and robust example of Early Showa domestic craft.

A suzuri-bako is a traditional Japanese ink box used to store the essential tools needed for traditional brush calligraphy and letter writing. This substantial example stands apart from the delicate lacquered varieties more commonly seen -- its construction is bold and utilitarian, built from straight-grained hardwood, possibly sugi (cryptomeria), finished in a deep red-brown lacquer that has aged to a richly patinated, well-worn surface. The exterior is reinforced throughout with hammered iron corner fittings, strap hinges, and studded flat-plate hardware that speak to a regional craft tradition valuing durability as much as aesthetics. The hinged lid opens to reveal a generous open tray compartment with traces of original red lacquer on the interior walls, while multiple pull-out drawers below -- each fitted with a cast iron ring or bail pull of differing decorative form -- provided organized storage for letter writing tools and small accessories. This is a fine example of vintage Japanese craft made for daily household use.

Today this suzuri-bako translates beautifully into a variety of modern home settings. Its deep open-top compartment and pull-out drawers make it an ideal jewelry box and accessories organizer for a bedroom dresser or vanity, keeping rings, bracelets, and small keepsakes neatly sorted. In a home office, it functions as a handsome desktop organizer for stationery, pens, and small supplies. The worn lacquer, hammer-textured iron hardware, and honest patina give it an undeniable wabi-sabi aesthetic that suits Japandi-style interiors, rustic farmhouse decor, or any space that welcomes objects with genuine character and history. It also makes a distinctive housewarming gift or gift for collectors of Japanese antique furniture and folk craft.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927-1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Straight-grained hardwood, possibly sugi (cryptomeria), with original red-brown lacquer finish; hammered iron corner fittings, strap hinges, flat-plate hardware, and ring pulls
• Use: Suzuri Bako -- traditional Japanese letter writing tool box for storing brushes and tools
• Modern Use: Jewelry box and accessories organizer; home office desktop storage; decorative accent piece in Japandi or wabi-sabi interiors
• Features: Hinged top lid with iron ring carry handle and multiple strap hinges; open interior tray with remnants of red lacquer; multiple pull-out drawers below, each with a distinct cast iron bail or ring pull; bold studded iron corner plates and edge strapping throughout; rich aged patina on all surfaces
• Dimensions: 9 1/2"W x 14"D x 10 1/2"H
• Condition: Good antique condition -- wear to lacquer consistent with age and use, patina throughout; all drawers and lid functional

A rare and characterful piece of Japanese antique furniture -- this iron-bound suzirubako brings the warmth of Early Showa craft and wabi-sabi beauty into any modern home.

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.