Japanese Ikkanbari Box with Calligraphy Decoration

A characterful Japanese box with a removable lid, featuring a glossy, smooth, red-brown finish decorated with flowing black calligraphy. The handwritten script creates an intricate, rhythmic pattern across the surface, lending the piece a distinctive visual appeal. Inside, the clearly visible woven bamboo structure offers an intriguing contrast to the polished exterior, revealing something of the box’s underlying construction. 

The box is believed to be in the style of ikkanbari, a traditional Japanese craft associated with applying layers of paper over a supporting framework. Its combination of woven bamboo, calligraphic decoration and warm, lacquer-like finish makes it an appealing example of Japanese decorative craftsmanship. No dates specified, though it is believed to be dating to the late 20th century.

Materials

The box has a visibly woven bamboo interior and a smooth, glossy, red-brown exterior and interior with black calligraphic decoration. The exterior has the appearance of lacquer, although the precise finish has not been confirmed. The calligraphy is an integral part of the box’s visual character; the origin and age of the handwritten text are unknown.

Dimensions

28.5cm x 31.2cm x 6.5cm

Condition and Antique Character

The box is in good condition, with minor age-related wear consistent with its antique character. Its glossy finish, calligraphic decoration and visible bamboo construction give it a distinctive presence. Please refer to the photographs for the details of its surface and overall condition.

Please study all photos, as they form a part of the description.