--- For International Buyers: Authentic vintage, sourced in Japan. All photos are true to condition. DM in English for more photos/details. Note: I ship within Japan. For overseas, please use a proxy (Buyee/FromJapan/ZenMarket). --- A unique copper artifact directly acquired from China, awaiting inscription decipherment. This square copper artifact transcends the realm of mere interior decor or miscellaneous goods, representing a collector's item for serious enthusiasts, encapsulating the romance of Eastern history and epigraphy. ◆ Shape and Function: Considerations of Practicality A precise square with sides of 5cm and a height of 7cm. The loop structure at the top indicates a design for "hanging or carrying," emphasizing practicality. The function as an incense burner (without openings), a weight, or a bell (without a resonating chamber) is ruled out, suggesting special uses such as an ink box, a medicine container, or an amulet case, a testament to the artisan's skill. ◆ Patterns and Inscriptions: The Greatest Value and Mystery The four sides tell a story in pairs. One side features a powerful yet elegant relief of a dragon and auspicious clouds, symbolizing authority and good fortune. On the opposite side, ancient Chinese characters (in seal script/clerical script) are deeply engraved. The characters are almost lost in modern times, and their decipherment by experts is the greatest mystery of this box. At the bottom, four more characters are in relief. These characters, resembling "馬" (horse), "澤" (without the water radical), "金" (gold), and "薈," raise questions about their context (owner's name, place name, auspicious phrases, etc.). The clarification of this is the key to determining the historical value of this item. ◆ Request and Promise to Collectors This item is a unique piece directly obtained from an old Chinese family. Please examine the casting texture, the natural oxidation due to aging, and the depth of the carving, which sets it apart from mass-produced crafts. We sincerely hope that those who can discern authenticity and genuine value, and those interested in Chinese character studies and Eastern archaeology, will participate in this deciphering journey. We also welcome questions and opinions regarding the decipherment. Specifications · Material: Copper · Size: Approximately 5cm per side × 7cm height · Condition: Oxidation and wear due to aging · Remarks: This item is collected and presented from the perspective of art and archaeological materials.