Japanese Antique Silk Reel Zakuri Wooden Thread winding machine Itomakiki WO395

Wooden Reeling machine "zaguri-ki″
A reeling machine is a tool used to reel raw silk from cocoons and was used in sericulture.
SIZE
Height: 42cm
Width: 53cm
Depth: 14.7cm
total weight: 4kg
Material: wood

Antique Japanese Silk Reeling Machine (Zakuri) – Meiji Period – Made in Eimei Village, Suwa, Shinano Province – Traditional Hand-Carved Tool

This is an authentic Japanese silk reeling machine, known as a "zakuri", that was actually used during the Meiji period (late 19th to early 20th century). Operated by hand, this tool played an important role in sericulture, allowing silk thread to be reeled from cocoons.

The piece features sturdy wooden gears, a crank mechanism that still functions, and even remnants of the original silk thread, making it both practical and historically valuable.

Maker's Mark & Inscription:

The body bears detailed engraved marks:

• Eimei Village, Suwa, Shinano Province (present-day Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture) — A region historically known for sericulture

• "Raw Silk Machinery" (生糸器械製) — Indicating its use in silk production

• "Made by Einosuke Dobashi (土橋栄助製造)" — Likely the artisan or workshop responsible for its production

Such detailed inscriptions are rare and greatly enhance the antique value of the piece.

Features:

• Hand-carved wooden gears and thread winding structure

• Visible remnants of silk thread

• Engraved kanji stamps on both side panels

• Solid wooden base, carefully finished by hand

 Condition:

There is some slight wobbling at the base where it contacts the surface.
Overall, the machine shows wear, stains, and cracking consistent with age and use, giving it an authentic antique character.

This zakuri is a rare and beautiful representation of Japan’s Meiji-era sericulture industry and traditional craftsmanship.