Bidspirit auction | Vintage Japanese Wooden Soroban Abacus

Vintage Japanese Wooden Soroban Abacus - This vintage Japanese soroban, or abacus, features a dark wood frame with wooden rods and light-colored wooden beads. The abacus follows the 1:4 bead configuration, which became the Japanese standard around 1935, with one bead in the upper deck and four beads in the lower deck across 21 columns. The central wooden divider displays incised characters with dark pigment: Hashimoto Shukuei (or Toshihide) followed by another smaller inscription to the right. The beads have a classic double-cone shape, typical of Japanese soroban design. The frame is constructed with traditional joinery and features a simple, functional aesthetic. Length: 10.5 inches. The abacus is in fair to good vintage condition. The dark finish on the wooden frame shows significant wear, especially along the edges and on the central divider, where the natural wood is exposed. There are surface scratches, nicks, and small chips consistent with age and regular use. The wooden beads and rods have accumulated dust and light surface grime. The overall structure remains sound and intact.