Writing Box (suzuri-bako)
Artist: Ritsu-o (Ogawa Haritsu) (Japanese)
Date: Edo Period (1615-1868), about 1725
Dimensions:
9 7/16 x 8 1/2 x 1 3/4 in.
Medium: Lacquer with pewter, porcelain and shell inlays, and gilded bronze
Classification: Utilitarian Objects
Credit Line: Gift of H.A. Fee
Object number: 1952.30A-F
Label Text:Elaborate containers for calligraphy materials were a popular form of decorative art in Japan. Drips of water from the water pot (mizushashi), here made in the shape of bamboo leaves, were sprinkled on the grinding stone (suzuri) at the center of the box. A dry ink stick (sumi) was then rubbed firmly against the wet grinding stone.
DescriptionTwo geese and stream inlaid on gold ground.
Not on view
In Collection(s)