JAPANESE 100+ YR OLD LIDED DRAWERED CALIGRAPHY TAN (04/03/2011)...

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JAPANESE 100+ YR OLD LIDED DRAWERED CALIGRAPHY TANSU

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JAPANESE 100+ YR OLD LIDED DRAWERED CALIGRAPHY TANSU

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Sold Date: 04/03/2011
Channel: Online Auction
Source: eBay
Category: Ethnic, Folk & Native American Art

This is a Japanese three drawer (with lidded 4th drawer), calligraphy tansu made entirely of Japanese keyaki wood (zelkova). with kiri wood interiors. Keyaki wood from the elm family was considered the most beautiful hardwood and was the choice for making specialty boxes and tansu. Kiri wood was prized for its lightness (one of the strongest woods in relation to its weight) as well as its ability to protect the contents from the humid summers of Japan. This chest shows a high degree of Japanese craftsmanship in the joinery, the entire construction is of wooden peg. It dates to the late Early Meiji Era (c.1870). The drawer pulls, locks and latches are all made of hand tooled copper and the hinges are of hand forged iron with a protective coat of burnt lacquer. It was used to contain valuables such as the the personal name chop and money or jewelry as well as letter writing and calligraphy tools. It was the forerunner of the attache case as it was used take accounting items out of the shop or home when doing business. The top has a lidded section see picture 2) which held brushes, an ink stone and and name chop (all included). With the exception of a few minor nicks and scratches as well as a very warm patina that only a century and a half of loving use could give it is in very fine condition with all drawers running smoothly. The lidded area snaps shut smartly and opens with the push of a button (see pictures 10). ( This Suzuribako chest measures 10 1/2" deep by 7" high by 7 " wide (26.5 x 18 x 18 cm). An incredibly warm accent chest for your home or office. Great to hold pens and papers as well as remote controls for the tv and stereo.

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