Last Will Container

This is a tube-shaped container to store rolls of paper. It is made by binding several wooden panels in a circular form, or rolling paper into a tube. Its cap can be opened on a hinge. It was used to convey or store a person’s final will. The container shown here is made by connecting eight wooden plates to form an octagonal tube, and then pasting layers of paper on the surface to resemble a cylinder. The convex cap on the top is connected to the body by a brass hinge to be opened and closed easily. The inside of the cap protrudes to fit into the cross section of the inside of the body, and fixes the cap in place as it closes. The entire surface was colored, while paper was pasted on the inside. On the front of the body, brass cuttings with the expression "諭書" were attached, meaning a royal appointment by the order of the king, and four brackets at the edges of the base support the structure. At the front, a flat metal decoration is affixed to allow a padlock to be used. On each side of the body, ring-shaped taps are attached to lace a cotton string through the tabs to allow it to be carried on a person’s back.