Overview
This rare and complete tabako-bon (Japanese desktop tobacco tray) is a handsome survivor of the late Meiji to Taisho period, dating to approximately 1890 to 1920. Representing a now-vanished dimension of Japanese daily life, this all-in-one tobacco set integrates a tobacco storage box, cast-iron ember cup (hi-ire), and kiseru pipe rest into a single refined object of traditional joinery craftsmanship. The quality of construction points strongly to bespoke sashimono workshop production rather than mass manufacture.
Item Details
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Type: Tabako-bon, complete desktop tobacco set
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Period: Late Meiji to Taisho, circa 1890-1920
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Origin: Japan
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Primary Material: Paulownia (kiri) or zelkova (keyaki) wood, sashimono frame-and-panel joinery
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Hardware: Black-dyed iron corner mounts on all four upper corners
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Components: Lidded wooden tobacco compartment (flower-form knob), recessed cast-iron hi-ire (removable), central kiseru pipe groove
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Structure: Two-tier format, upper body plus raised base
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Maker: Unknown; attributed to a specialist joinery craftsman (sashimonoshi)
Product Dimensions
Tray
Width: 24 cm / 9.4 in
Depth: 16.3 cm / 6.4 in
Height: 6.1 cm / 2.4 in
Ashtray
Width: 11.2 cm / 4.4 in
Depth: 11.2 cm / 4.4 in
Condition
Rated Fair to Good. The wood surfaces display a warm, age-acquired patina. Minor surface wear is present, consistent with approximately one century of use and storage. The iron corner fittings and hi-ire show appropriate oxidation. All three functional components are present and intact. No major cracks, losses, or repairs are noted. Suitable for display and careful decorative use.
Shipping
This item is carefully wrapped and ships from Japan. International shipping is available. Please allow additional transit time for customs clearance. Combined shipping is available for multiple purchases. Contact us with any questions before ordering.
International Orders
Import duties, taxes, and customs clearance fees are not included in the product price or shipping cost.
If applicable, these charges are determined by your country's customs authority and are the responsibility of the customer.
