The traditional Japanese writing box was made to hold a set of implements for calligraphy. Within the box is a rectangular black ink stone. Above the stone is a silver water dropper. The dropper would be removed and filled with water; a tiny opening at the edge allowed the calligrapher to wet the stone’s surface in a controlled manner. Usually included would be an ink stick, made of fie soot bound with glue. Liquid ink was createdd by rubbing the stick's tip lightly on the moistened stone, using a circular motion and adding water to dilute the ink as necessary.

This Japanese suzuribako dates from the early 19th Century or earlier. It is black lacquer with inlaid mother of pearl and is in pristine condition. It comes in its original wooden box wrapped in silk cloth. Approximately 9.5" x 7".

Purchased at the Yokohama Art Fair in the 1980s.

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