Lot Essay
According to the inscription written on the inside of the cloth wrapper, Endo Bansen was given the box by Baron Mitsui Takamine, 10th head of the main branch of the Mitsui family, on May 8, 1933. The box was made to commemorate publication of Ryogae nendaiki (Record of banking transactions) by the Mitsui family, covering the years from the Meireki to Bunsei eras (1655-1818). The original manuscript was in the collection of the Mitsui Bunko. The family decided to make a printed replica.
Endo Bansen worked as a researcher on this publication project. The lacquer replica was a thank-you gift from Baron Mitsui: the water dropper in the writing box is crafted as a miniature working abacus and the inkstone is in the shape of a weight for measuring gold. As the final pièce de résistance, coins are inlaid on the interior of the lid in gold and silver.
Endo Bansen worked as a researcher on this publication project. The lacquer replica was a thank-you gift from Baron Mitsui: the water dropper in the writing box is crafted as a miniature working abacus and the inkstone is in the shape of a weight for measuring gold. As the final pièce de résistance, coins are inlaid on the interior of the lid in gold and silver.