This is a vintage Japanese wooden lacquerware letter box. According to the only English website where I could find any information on this unique box (image included), this is a Buddhist altar item. A letter is placed inside, and then the box is placed inside, or next to the Buddhist altar. I picked this up with the purpose of using to hold the ashes of one of my beagles who just recently made a trip to the Rainbow Bridge. It unfortunately is not deep enough. This beautiful box measures 9” x 7” x 2”, is very lightweight, the lacquer is very shiny, and guesstimating this is over 50 years old, it is in very good shape too. I have included photos of the spots where the lacquer is missing. There is also very minor dent on the lid. Comes clean from a smoke free home. Please feel free to check out my closet for other unique items, Coach purses, and more. Feel free to make an offer, and thank you for stopping by!