I inherited this Meiji-period inkwell. It has been lightly dusted but not cleaned it. The lid is detached, but the hinges are intact and could possibly be repaired. There seems to be the owner's initials scratched into the lid. Possibly TB or TF. Please see a picture of the lid for details. Inside the well is a glass "lining" that I did not attempt to remove.
Dimensions with a lid:
Approximately 2.75" in diameter x 2.25" high
Weight:
11oz.
I had this piece appraised online - value between 300-500. A similar inkwell, but not as intricate and missing the lid, sold on Live Auctioneers for 250.00. I also found another one, exactly like this one - that I can no longer locate - that sold in 2017 for 500.00. I have priced accordingly and am open to reasonable offers.
This is a fantastic piece with birds, a frog, a beetle, a bee, a dragonfly, and lily pads resting on a pumpkin/melon. Definitely a rare find for a discerning collector to own. Please ask if you have any questions or concerns. See images for an accurate, visible description of the item. Thank you for looking.