Japanese Meiji Era Calligraphy Tansu Chest SRJC Property Tag Number: 72821 Suzuribako Calligraphy Tansu Chest . This chest has three removable drawers with a calligraphy brush, two keys, one suzuri (ink stone) on the bottom big drawer. The upper right drawer is lockable. The brush is from ShuYodo (??? ????). The back of the ink stone carved traditional Chinese characters. Probably the name of the owner, and the name of the store purchased. ???? Kayashima store ????? Pohang Nakamachi-dori This is a very special over 120 years old antique Japanese three drawer (with lidded top section), suzuribako (portable calligraphy tansu) made entirely of kiri (paolownia) wood. This chest still has its original deep century and half old glowing warm patina. This chest shows a high degree of Japanese craftsmanship in the joinery, being made with hardened hinoki pegged wood construction. The method of construction as well as all the forged iron metal work on this chest dates it to the mid Meiji era (c. 1890). All drawer handles, hinges, and latches are made of forged iron with a protective coat of burnt lacquer. This chest was used to hold calligraphy and writing materials as well as money and valuables. The lidded top section was for the storage and use of suzuri (ink stone) and brushes. The lidded top swings open to reveal the area where the ink stone is housed. The key of the chest still works on the operable lock on the upper right drawer, the lidded top opens by pushing the latch button and closes securely when the lid is closed. The top latch also holds the door shut. The top handle is still very secure and provides a convenient way to transport this chest. All drawers open and close smoothly and the triple hinged lidded top swings open and closed easily.