Welcome! This is the official online shop of Hiroyuki Oka, a craftsman specializing in traditional Japanese puzzle boxes (Himitsu-Bako).

Square 14 steps Random-grain/Ichimatsu Japanese puzzle box Himitsu-bako 20269 [s14rgwi20269]

Square 14 steps Random-grain/Ichimatsu Japanese puzzle box Himitsu-bako 20269 [s14rgwi20269]

Price: US$109.90(tax included)

Low stock
Quantity:

Item description

*The Top panel is made from three kinds of wood: Walnut, Bubinga, and Poplar. The Poplar, which is used for the widest section, has been dyed blue. Since the natural wood grain remains visible through the color, there may be some natural marks and uneven coloring. Please understand that these are part of the natural character of the wood. The bottom panel is covered with a thin slice of natural Walnut. The side panels feature two-color checkered Yosegi made from Mizuki and Hō wood. Made by Hiroyuki Oka.

Opening method of the puzzle box : 14 steps
Moving panels and Slide keys : have 3 panels / 2 keys
Outside size : 3.04 x 3.04 x 1.96 inch (78 x 78 x 50 mm)
Inside storage space size : 1.61 x 2.51 x 1.41 inch (41 x 64 x 36 mm)
Include Description (solution sheet) and the gift box

"The Japanese puzzle box (Himitsu-bako) is made only of wood, environmentally-friendly products. This a one of traditional art work of Japan. The origin goes back even to the Edo and Meiji era (1800s) in Japan. It has been handed down by the very few craftsmen. I am crafting full-time these puzzle boxes by myself. I had training for 10 years and I'm crafting these Japanese puzzle boxes and Yosegi-zaiku for over 25 years. All items are made in my workshop and shipped to you directly. I will promise that all boxes are of good quality. My Puzzle boxes will move smoothly, because I will check and test all puzzle boxes before shipping. If you have a question, Please feel free to ask me anything. Thank you!. Hiroyuki Oka"

The puzzle box outside (Length) size : 1 sun (Mame / 4.3cm / 1.70inch) , 2 sun (6.0cm / 2.35inch) , 3 sun (9.0cm / 3.54inch) , 4 sun (11.6cm / 4.56inch) , 5 sun (15.0cm / 5.90inch) , 6 sun (18.0cm / 7.00inch) , 7 sun (21.0cm / 8.25inch).

Reviews

  • 5
    The blue wood square !
    By lippatrice
    This new design is surprising! *Himitsu-bako* have traditionally always been made from natural, unstained wood. When I first saw this box featuring blue-stained wood, I was a bit hesitant. However, you explained on your blog that this type of stain has long been used in *Zougan* art as well as on many other items, such as children's toys. From that moment on, my perception of stained wood changed for the better.
    The blue-grey stain has delicately infused the poplar wood rather than simply coating it; as a result, the wood grain is beautifully highlighted and blends perfectly with the warmth of the bubinga and walnut. The colors complement each other wonderfully.
    Congratulations on daring to use this stained wood for a *himitsu-bako*—it creates an exceptional contrast!
    Of course, as always, the movements are incredibly smooth, and the item was carefully packaged. Thank you, Hiroyuki.
    Seller's response
    Thank you very much for your wonderful review! I am very happy that this experimental design was received so warmly. Colored woods, such as blue and pink, were sometimes used in the wood inlay designs on very old Japanese puzzle boxes. This tradition had almost disappeared over the years, but I recently found a source for high-quality colored wood, so I decided to try using it. As you said, the color does not completely cover the natural wood grain. The original grain remains visible, so it matches well with the other woods. I feel that this has opened up new design possibilities for me. Thank you as always for your purchases, your social media posts, and your wonderful comments!
    1 of 1 viewers said this review is helpful.
    Is this review helpful for you?