Antique Japanese Woodblock, Kanji Tabbaco Name Printing Block set 3

These three hand-carved pieces include an Antique Japanese woodblock set of Meiji-era cigarette name blocks produced around 1904, engraved with bold Kanji for Yamato, Shikishima, and Hakutsuru that were likely used to print cigarette packaging. Each vintage print block shows the rich, aged patina of hand carved wood and faint traces of blue ink that remain in the grooves. They are fully functional for traditional printing yet handsome displayed as Japanese decor or calligraphy art, appealing to woodblock collectors, folk art enthusiasts, and anyone interested in Meiji period art and Japanese wood carving who value authentic historical printing tools today.

Detailed description

These rectangular blocks are carved from wood and bear deep, characterful Kanji lettering intended as Kanji printing stamp devices for cigarette packaging. The three-block grouping reflects commercial printing practice during the Meiji era; the carving style and remaining blue ink indicate actual printing use rather than decorative reproduction. Surface dirt and ink residue are present and will transfer slightly to hands if touched; this is consistent with original working blocks and contributes to their vintage patina.

Use and care

Handle with gloves to avoid transferring ink and to preserve the surface. If you plan to use the blocks for traditional printing, test prints on scrap paper first to assess ink pickup from the aged grooves; gentle cleaning with a soft brush is recommended if you prefer less ink transfer. Do not soak in water or use aggressive solvents, as the historic wood and carving can be sensitive to moisture and abrasion.

Collector notes

Collectors of Meiji period art, Japanese wood carving, and folk art stamps will appreciate the authentic wear and the clear brand lettering for Yamato, Shikishima, and Hakutsuru. These pieces work well as display objects in a study, gallery, or shop window labeled as vintage print block examples and are equally valuable to practitioners of traditional printing who source original materials.

What’s included

🌐 ーーー SHOP POLICIES & SHIPPING DETAILS ーーー

🌐 For International Buyers (Outside the US): 

Standard terms apply. Any import duties, local taxes, or customs clearance fees under your country's regulations are the responsibility of the buyer upon delivery (DDU).

✈️ SHIPPING & COURIER POLICY

• Covered Areas: We offer Free Shipping to the US, Europe, and most destinations. 

• Exceptions: For remote areas, Australia, New Zealand, or certain island destinations, additional shipping surcharges may apply for heavier/larger items. If a surcharge is required, we will contact you before shipping. If we cannot reach an agreement, the order will be fully refunded and canceled. (Light/small items generally ship free worldwide).

• Couriers: Orders are securely shipped via DHL, FedEx, EMS, or Japan Post with full tracking. The courier is selected by the shop depending on the package size and destination; buyers cannot specify the carrier. 

• Urgent Orders: Express upgrades are available for an additional fee. Please message us before purchasing if you need your item by a specific date.

📦 MULTIPLE ITEMS & COMBINED SHIPPING

• If you purchase two or more treasures together, we always combine shipping whenever safe and possible. While this may save shipping costs, it is not guaranteed for every order (e.g., combining fragile antique porcelain with heavy ironware). Any realized shipping savings will be happily refunded to you after packaging.

🛡️ RETURNING AN ITEM

• We accept returns within 7 days of delivery. For returns due to buyer’s remorse or personal reasons (e.g., changed your mind), the buyer is responsible for all round-trip shipping costs (original shipping + return shipping) and any applicable processing fees. The refund will be processed once the item is returned safely in its original condition.

🌸 ANTIQUE & VINTAGE CONDITION NOTE

• Please note that our items are authentic antiques and vintage pieces. As they have traveled through history, they naturally carry signs of age, including scratches, minor wear, or stains. We take detailed photos of every angle; please examine all photos carefully to understand the current condition before placing your order.

FAQ

Q: Are the blocks original Meiji era items?

A: Yes—the style, carving, and remaining ink are consistent with Meiji era pieces dated around 1904 and described here as Meiji period art.

Q: Can I still use these as Kanji printing stamp blocks?

A: Yes, they remain functional for traditional printing, though they show age-related dirt and faint blue ink; test prints are recommended.

Q: Will the ink transfer to my hands?

A: Some blue ink residue remains in the grooves and may lightly tint skin on contact; handling with gloves reduces transfer.

Q: Are these suitable for display as Japanese decor or calligraphy art?

A: Absolutely—each piece is well suited to display, complementing calligraphy art displays, Asian art supply collections, or woodblock collector showcases.

Q: What condition issues should a buyer expect?

A: The blocks are in good condition for their age but exhibit surface dirt, ink traces, and light wear consistent with working vintage print blocks.

If you need additional photographs, close-ups of the Kanji carving, or measurements for each block beyond the largest item listed, please request them and they will be provided.