A SUZURIBAKO [WRITING BOX] MEIJI PERIOD, LATE 19TH CENTURY |

the rectangular base with overhanging cover with canted corners decorated in gold, silver and black togidashi, hiramaki-e and takamaki-e with cherry blossom in a hilly landscape, a poem above on a red lacquer ground, nashiji interior fitted with inkstone and silver waterdropper, fundame rims

There is some slight surface wear to the colour as can be seen in the illustration. The interior is in good condition with minor rubbing to the edges of the tray and one corner with a slight crack to the edge. Slight wear to base, overall in good condition
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The scene depicted on the cover alludes to Mount Yoshino. On the cover are the first three phrases of a waka poem by Motoori Norinaga（1730 – 1801). The whole poem reads:

Shikishima no

Yamato-gokoro wo

Hito towaba

Asahi ni niou

Yamazakura bana

If one asks

What is the spirit of Japan?

I would answer it is

Like the wild cherry blossoms

Shimmering under the morning light