Engineering:Suzuri-bako

Short description: Type of Japanese writing implement box

A larger Edo period suzuri-bako depicting eight bridges and iris, lacquerware and mother-of-pearl, attributed to Ogata Kōrin (National Treasure)

Open box with writing implements inside such as brushes, inkstone, water container, and knife

Suzuri-bako (硯箱; "inkstone box") are a type of Japan ese writing box. The boxes are traditionally made of lacquered wood and are used to hold writing implements.^[1] Historically, the boxes were associated with calligraphy, and as such they were made using high-quality materials designed to safeguard porcelain inkstones (suzuri) from damage.^[2]

History

The first suzuri-bako were developed in 9th-century Japan.^[2] At the time, calligraphy was an integral part of Japanese society. In order for a writer to produce a high-quality calligraphy script, a set of precise tools was needed. The most important of these tools was the inkstone, which was required to hold and transfer ink onto a writer's brush.^[2] Ink sticks, water droppers, and a small knife were also part of a calligrapher's set.^[2] Suzuri-bako were designed to ensure that the various tools a calligrapher needed were properly organized and protected.^[1] Due to the insoluble nature of resin-based lacquer, the contents of the writing box were relatively safe from moisture.^[3] Inside of the square or rectangular boxes rested a number of different trays and holders, the layout of which differed from period to period.^[2] Early boxes were large enough to accommodate both the writer's implements and papers, while later boxes only housed tools. A second type of box, the ryōshibako, were used in later periods to house completed papers.^[2]

Suzuri-bako became more elaborate as over time. While early period boxes are often decorated with solid red lacquer, more modern boxes are decorated in any number of ways.^[2] From the Muromachi period onward, many writing boxes have been decorated with images from Japan's great works of literature.^[2] Kōdaiji Temple in Kyoto became associated with a style of Suzuri-bako decoration that featured asymmetrical patterns and autumn grasses. In terms of lacquerware, black, brown, and gold are the most common colors seen in more modern suzuri-bako. During the Edo period many dowries included a suzuri-bako.^[2] Advancements in technology and manufacturing processes during the Meiji period resulted in a development of a number of new box shapes and sizes.^[2] The craft declined after the wide scale replacement of calligraphy, though the boxes are still produced in small numbers.

Gallery

17th century suzuri-bako depicting fans, made in wood with silver-gold lacquer
17th-century suzuri-bako depicting a dragon
Edo period 18th-century suzuri-bako depicting a warbler in a plum tree, made in lacquered wood with gold and silver inlay
18th-century suzuri-bako with cranes
19th-century suzuri-bako with interior compartments displayed
Early-20th century suzuri-bako paired with a writing table