1930-1940

Writing Box

Japanese, 1901 - 1982

This writing box was made using the kanshitsu, or dry lacquer, technique. The base is made not of wood, but of seven or eight layers of cloth, which allows for more flexibility in shaping the box. It also enables the piece to be lightweight and easier to move on a desktop or for storage. Inside are the accoutrements for writing: an inkstone and a hammered silver water dropper, as well as a tray for paper.