A Zeshin wood suzuribako and a black plaque by Reisai Late 19th Century

the rounded rectangular wood suzuribako decorated in iro-e and silver takamaki-e with two bamboo shoots and the leaves in shishiai and carving (katakiri bori), the bamboo in brown lacquer simulating copper, with scattered small silver snowflakes on a dark wood ground showing wood grain (mokume), the interior carved and lacquered with bamboo and its leaves, signed Zeshin, the interior later fitted with an ink stone and a cloisonné enamel and brass water dropper (suiteki), together with a black lacquer (kuro urushi) plaque inlaid in mother-of-pearl with plum blossoms and pine needles, the reverse signed Reisai in gold lacquer, with a fitted box inscribed by Reisai 'Suzuribako Zeshin saku, Ita (plaque) Reisai saku' 'Kurourushi ita bunko' and the interior signed Reisai with a seal  (3)

Christie's New York, 22nd March 1984, lot 972.

I.N.C.S. Journal , vol. 5, no. 1, June 1977, no. 13, p. 28.

Good condition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.