Suzuribako - Pair of peacocks

A Japanese suzuribako, with rounded corners, decorated in gold taka-makie and hira-makie lacquer, with the use of mother-of-pearl flakes of different nuances on a black nashiji lacquer background depicting a pair of peacocks in a naturalistic scene.

Inside the box, the scene transforms into a moment of deep contemplation. The Buddhist monk is seated on a rock in meditation, with a serene posture and a lotus flower in his right hand. The monk, seated under a chrysanthemum plant, with hills in the background and a waterfall at the base, finds harmony with the surrounding nature.

The jug, suiteki, is made of engraved and golden shakudo bronze, within the nashiji lacquer container.

The inkstone inside is necessary to prepare liquid ink from solid ink sticks (sumi), and the jug, which allows for control over the amount of water used to prepare the ink.

Suzuribako, or “inkstone boxes,” are primarily designed for the practical function of containing writing instruments. However, these boxes often stand out as exceptional examples of artwork.

Origin: Japan

Period: Edo XVIII-XIX century.

Dimensions: 25,5 x 23,5 x 5 cm.

Conservation status: Very Good