Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This is a wooden storage box lid (tomobako), traditionally made from paulownia (kiri) wood to house a hanging scroll (kakemono) or tea ceremony object. The exterior is brush-inscribed in sumi ink with kanji calligraphy describing the artwork or artifact originally stored within.
Story
Japanese collectors commissioned custom paulownia boxes like this to safeguard precious scrolls from humidity, pests, and fire. The calligraphy serves as both an inventory title and an attestation of authentication.
Maker / Origin
Paulownia storage boxes (tomobako) were crafted by specialized woodworkers (kiribako-shi) and inscribed either by the artist who created the enclosed artwork or by a later connoisseur, tea master, or mounter. The ink inscription typically notes the title, subject, or artist of the contents.
Condition & Value
Shows natural age-related darkening of the wood and a visible vertical split along the grain on the left side, consistent with antique paulownia wood. The calligraphy remains clearly legible and well-preserved.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.