Vintage Japanese Ink Line

[Herb Stoops]

Here is an interesting Ink Line :Click to enlarge
Herb

[Cherryville Chuck]

That's a beauty. I'm guessing that the wad of (cloth?) in the front well holds the ink. Is there a purpose for the holes in the base?

[Herb Stoops]

I have been trying to figure that out too, Chuck. The small holes semm to line up across the elipse/circle. I can't think of anything. The big holes are at 60°, and the small ones look maybe like 30°.
Herb

[Nickp]

The holes look more like dimples...I'm thinkin' decoration...dresses it up more than just a flat bottom...?

[Cherryville Chuck]

I thought they were drilled holes but Nick is right, they are just depressions carved out. I wonder if there is some symbolism to the design or just the maker's artistic imagination?

[Herb Stoops]

I think the spacing has some significance. Otherwise with the ornate carving on the rest of the tool It would be more extravagant. Maybe an eraser.
Herb