Vintage Japanese Suzuri-Bako Ink Box - 1930s Showa Era (25D-246)

Vintage Japanese Ink Box (SKU 25D-246)

Showa-era suzuribako-style writing chest with rich burl grain and iron fittings

This compact Japanese writing chest, or suzuribako, dates to the mid-Showa period and is crafted in warm, Keyaki (Zelkova) wood with a striking burl-like grain. The front is organized with two small upper drawers and a deeper lower drawer, each fitted with traditional round iron pulls and a small lock plate that recall the hardware of miniature tansu chests.

The hinged top opens to reveal a shallow compartment once used to store inkstone, brushes, and paper, making this an ideal piece for calligraphy tools, stationery, or treasured keepsakes today. Heavy corner brackets, lid straps, and a central carry handle in darkened iron give the box a robust, portable character while the softly aged patina speaks to decades of careful use.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Showa period (circa 1930s)
• Material: Keyaki (Zelkova) wood with iron fittings
• Use: Suzuribako / portable ink box or small tansu-style storage chest
• Features: Hinged lift-top compartment; two small drawers and one deep drawer; original iron lock plate and ring pulls; robust corner and lid hardware; attractive burl-like grain and warm vintage patina
• Dimensions: 7 3/4"W x 12"D x 8 1/2"H
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition with light wear, minor marks, and oxidation to metal consistent with age and use

A handsome Showa-era accent that brings the quiet refinement of traditional Japanese calligraphy to any desk, shelf, or interior.

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.