Antique Japanese Portable Chest, 1800

Details

Description

This antique Japanese portable piece was made as a sturdy valuables chest, also known as a hako tansu: a lockable … Read more This antique Japanese portable piece was made as a sturdy valuables chest, also known as a hako tansu: a lockable “mini tansu” used at home or while travelling to store important documents, money, seals and small valuables safely.

Dimensions: height 45 cm, width 40 cm, depth 48 cm.

The heavy, riveted iron straps and corner fittings are typical of this type of security chest. They reinforce the structure, protect the corners during transport, and give the piece its unmistakably rugged character.

The exterior is defined by its impressive ironwork: wide, riveted hinges running the full height, a large lock plate with keyhole and ring pull, and additional fittings that armour the front. The wood has a deep dark-brown to reddish-brown tone, with honest wear, small nicks and a beautifully dry, timeworn patina.

Behind the door, the interior is neatly organised. At the top are two generous full-width drawers, ideal for papers and larger items. At the bottom are two smaller drawers, intended for valuables or more delicate objects.

Today, this piece works perfectly as a unique storage cabinet for keys, jewellery, letters, office items or collectibles, while also serving as an authentic, warm interior accent on a low sideboard, in open shelving, or as a statement piece in an entryway.

with clear signs of use, wear and patina consistent with its age; sturdy and functional. See less