Japanese Lacquer Suzuri-bako by Tsuruhara Kakuu (Japanese 1881-1914), Gourds on Vine c.1914-16, Suzuri-bako is crafted of hemp cloth covered with lacquer. The cover is ornamented with a gourd on the vine motif crafted from gold and silver, with tender curling vines, a blossom, and two small gourds, also charmingly showing insect damage to a leaf. The interior is colored a deep cinnabar red. The suzuribako contains two bamboo brushes covered in lacquer, a paper knife and a paper punch in lacquer over wood, each with metal shakudo rings, and a gourd shaped inkstone. The water dropper is a natural miniature gourd with a gilded lacquer stem; continuing the decorative motif from the cover. Also included is a letter from the artist describing the process of making the piece, written to the original buyer in 1916. With a Kiriwood tomobako inscribed "Gourd Suzuribako" (Hisago Suzuribako) and "At Kyoto" (Oite Kyoto) "Kakuu Saku" (Kakuu made) with the chop seal of the artist.

Dimensions: D. 9 "

Condition: Box has shrinkage crack to top.