Sumitsubo Japanese Hand made Wooden Inkpot - 210mm

A self-made wooden ink pot (Sumitsubo) crafted by a master Miyadaiku (Japanese temple/shrine carpenter).

Wood: Japanese zelkova

Weight: 305g

Total length: 210mm

Accessories: a wooden “Karuko”, line and two boxes of cotton.

Additional Information: It is in good, used condition with a smooth-rotating wheel. I acquired it from a collector in the Kanto region, who originally discovered it at an antique market in Kiryu City back in Heisei 24 (2012). According to the previous owner, it dates back to the Taisho or early Showa era. It was carefully used over a long period by the Miyadaiku who crafted it, which has given its surface a beautiful, amber-like patina. There are some imperfections near the ink line outlet at the front, but they do not affect its functionality. The accessory shown in the last picture is a replacement for this part.

Compared to the overly ornate and flashy carvings often seen in contemporary ink pots, I personally prefer this minimalist and grand aesthetic. While intricate carvings can sometimes mask imperfections, a simple design leaves no room for error—any mistake in its form or execution would be immediately visible.