A captivating suzuribako 硯箱 (writing box) showcasing the Chinese Immortal Mei Fu 梅福 (Japanese Bai Fuku 梅福) seated on a luan 鸞, a mythical bird similar to a phoenix, gliding above a pine branch surrounded by wisps of clouds. Of rectangular form with a well-fitted lid with overhanging sides. Rendered in hiramaki-e 平蒔絵 (low-relief lacquer design) and takamaki-e 高蒔絵 (high-relief lacquer design) in shades of gold, silver and red, on a glossy black lacquer ground 蝋色漆 (rôiro’urushi). On the reverse side of the lid, a hawk 鷹 (taka) perches on a stand, its gaze fixed on blooming hydrangea branches紫陽花 (ajisai). Executed in gold and silver maki-e against a luxurious reddish gold 梨子地 (sprinkled gold lacquer) background. The interior is fitted with a removable insert containing a rectangular inkstone 硯 (suzuri) and a silver oval water dropper with an engraved flower design. The sides of the box are decorated with cloud patterns. Period: Japan – Second half 19th century (Meiji period). Dimensions: Height: 5 cm, Width: 22 cm, Depth: 25 cm. The suzuribako is in very good condition with minor traces of age. Please refer to the photos for a clear impression. When shipped we will add a certificate of authenticity.