Suzuribako (writing box) in lacquer and chō (butterfly) decoration with gold powder and mother-of-pearl
Rectangular suzuribako writing box of Japanese craftsmanship in wood and very deep and shiny urushi lacquer from Wajima on which has been applied a delightful decoration of butterfly (chō, symbol of transformation, lightness and soul in Japanese culture) and autumn grasses (akikusa, symbols of the ephemeral beauty of autumn evoking melancholy and contemplation). These motifs were made with the technique of hira-maki-e (flat patterns made by sprinkling gold powder on a thin layer of lacquer, then polished for a smooth surface) and the technique of raden, mother-of-pearl inlay (in the wings of the butterfly). Some of the grasses were made with the technique of nashiji, sprinkling of gold.
This box consists of 3 parts: the bottom, the lid and a subadai, a similarly lacquered wooden "board" that is usually used to protect calligraphy items during transport. This is a unique copy dating from the Heisei era (1989 - 2019), in perfect condition, accompanied by its protective box made of paulownia wood (tomobako) and a protective fabric (tomonuno) turmeric. The craftsman's seal is affixed to the cover of the protective box.
Suzurikabo (硯箱) are ink boxes (bako) (suzuri), traditionally used to gather and store in the same place all the instruments used for calligraphy (except the paper, which is kept in another box, the ryōshibako). They therefore usually contain an ink stone, brushes, an ink stick, a dropper, and a brush rest. Beyond their primary use, they are exceptional and precious decorative objects in which treasures can be slipped.
Wajima lacquerware, or Wajima-nuri, is one of the most renowned in Japan, particularly appreciated for its depth, durability and sophistication. The Noto Peninsula, where Wajima City is located, was hit by a terrible earthquake on January 1, 2024, and many lacquer artisans lost their tools of work. We hope that the invaluable legacy of these skills will continue, even if it will take time to rebuild everything.
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JAPAN |
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(box only) Length 25cm x Width 20cm x Height 5cm |
| WEIGHT | (total) 1200gr |
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© Atelier Ikiwa – Laurence Corteggiani. Photos and texts protected. All reproduction forbidden without authorization.
KNOW-HOW
Traditional Japanese lacquer, urushi, comes from the sap of the lacquer tree (Rhus Verniciflua), which flows after incision of the bark. It is a very precious material, a tree will give a maximum of 200ml of sap in its life, which is worked by specialized craftsmen. It takes many operations, slow and meticulous, and several months of work to bring real lacquer objects to life. It is the oldest craft in Japan! Initially used to protect and waterproof objects, this immutable craft has become an art of extreme sophistication. If you want to know more about the art of Japanese lacquer, you can read our dedicated article > .
SHIPPING AND PAYMENT OPTIONS
Shipping
Free shipping in mainland France for purchases over €200. Shipping with Colissimo, delivery to your home or a pick-up point, package delivered against signature or unique code for valuable items. Orders are generally dispatched within 2 business days, except for fine art photographs, which are printed on demand, and special cases that will be announced in the banner at the top of the site (e.g., in case of absence). Learn more >
Payment options
Secure card payment with Shopify Payments and 3D Secure technology.
Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Cartes Bancaires, PayPal, Apple Pay, Shop Pay, and Klarna.
Klarna: Pay in 3 interest-free installments or within 30 days, for purchases up to €1,500, subject to Klarna's approval. You will be redirected to Klarna to log in or create an account and confirm your payment.
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Your invoice will be sent with your order.
Returns and exchanges
14 days to change your mind. Learn more >
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Clean with a very soft cloth to avoid scratches, soaked in a little warm water if necessary (never soak your lacquer objects). No microwave, dishwasher, dryer. Do not expose to direct sunlight for a long time (risk of discoloration). If the atmosphere is very dry and very hot, and to avoid the risk of cracking, you can place a glass filled with water next to your lacquer object.
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The art of wrapping
The exceptional items are wrapped in a beautiful fabric beautifully knotted using the little-known art of Korean pojagi and decorated with a delightful maedup (Korean ornamental knot). Details and conditions >
WRAPPING
Exceptional items are wrapped in textiles tied according to the Korean pojagi art