Unusual and Terrific Old Made in Japan Painted Wooden Animal Blocks A.R.G drawing hoping for pages and pages

hoping for pages and pages of gorgeous calligraphy practice

and former Collections Manager and Librarian for Architecture

I would think  made to use in conjunction with a very specific vessel

This charming little brass box

Overall: 4 3/4" tall

Unusual and Terrific Old Made in Japan Painted Wooden Animal Blocks A.R.G drawing hoping for pages and pagesIve never seen and can't find out there another set like these, a few of which are faintly stamped 'Made in Japan' on the back sides, and which Id guess date to the 1920s or so. Terrific array of terrific looking animals with great color, and the best animals for stacking Ive ever seen (or played with!) Set includes 14, all pictured, all of which are in very good shape, just some nibbles to the back sides of a couple as documented. I especially love