18　Japanese vintage stationery　/　文具

Stationery items are tools used for writing and painting. Among them, the four essential items—inkstone, ink, paper, and brush—are collectively known as the "Four Treasures of the Study." Other items include inkstone screens, water droppers, ink rests, calligraphy weights, brush washers, brush holders, brush rests, seal materials, seal inkstones, and unusual stones.

Initially, these were simply tools for enjoying calligraphy and painting, and were consumable items. However, over time, they evolved beyond practical writing implements into highly decorative works of art and craftsmanship. The materials used in antique stationery include jade, stone, copper, ceramics, bamboo, and lacquer, among others, reflecting a diverse range of craftsmanship. These items embody the essence of Eastern culture, resulting in works of art with a keen aesthetic sense.

In particular, unique and interesting examples of stationery boxes, inkstone boxes, and water droppers exist in Japan.

文具は、書画を書くための道具です。中でも硯、墨、紙、筆の四つを「文房四宝」と言います。その他、硯屏、水滴、墨床、書鎮、筆洗、筆筒、筆架、印材、印ゴウ、怪石などがあります。

当初は、単に書画をたしなむための道具で、消耗品でしたが、時代と共に実用的な書写用具としてだけではなく、鑑賞性の高い美術工芸品が作られるようになりました。古文具の素材には、玉や石、銅、陶、竹、漆など様々な工芸が介在しています。それらは東洋文化が凝集され、審美眼の高い作品が生み出されています。

特に文箱や硯箱、水滴などは日本でも独自の面白い品が存在します。