Antique Japanese Tabako-Bon Smoking Box Showa Era

This tabako-bon has the form of a naga hibachi and was originally used by the patrons of a shop in Japan.The open top is divided into two compartments, the largest lined with sheet metal for use as a small hibachi (hi-ire). Insulated by a layer of ash, lit charcoal was placed into the hibachi and used to light one’s smoking pipe. A simple elegant design base on wood chimerism without any nails or pags. In good condition. One of a kind piece.

This is an antique Japanese tabako-bon (smoking box) from the Showa era. A Japanese tabako-bon, also known as a ‘tobacco tray’. Used to store tobacco and smoking accessories. Believed to have evolved from the traditional accessories of Japanese incense ceremony, tabako-bons first came into use in the 17th century and were often beautifully decorated to display one’s wealth and status.

It was customary for visitors of a shop to chat and smoke with the shop keeper, and consequently many shops, inns, and tea houses provided tabako-bons such as this for their customers. The box is complete with brass chopsticks used to move burning coals and a bamboo receptacle (haifuki) used for ash and other waste.

Dimensions: 8.5″ x 14.25″ x 8.25″ (with top wood and the hook )

*Antique piece. Sell in used, pre-owned condition. Vintage and antique items by nature have variable amounts of wear, imperfections, signs of use, age and time. Perfectly imperfect. Condition shown as in pictures. Kindly contact us if you need more info. or detail pictures.