Antique Japanese 3-Drawer Tansu Cabinet

Details

Description

Small Japanese three-drawer tansu chest crafted from Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) and paulownia wood (kiri), produced in Japan during the … Read more Small Japanese three-drawer tansu chest crafted from Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) and paulownia wood (kiri), produced in Japan during the late Meiji to early Taishō period, circa 1890–1926. The piece features a compact structure reinforced with traditional iron hardware.During the Meiji period Japan underwent major social and economic transformation, yet domestic furniture continued to be produced following long-established craftsmanship traditions. Small tansu chests like this were commonly used to store documents, textiles and personal belongings.The outer structure is made from Japanese cedar, valued for its stability and durability. The drawers are constructed in paulownia wood, a lightweight material traditionally used in Japan for storage furniture because of its resistance to humidity.

Each drawer front features hand-forged iron hardware with circular lock plates and curved handles, characteristic elements of Japanese furniture from the late nineteenth century. Iron corner reinforcements add both strength and visual character to the piece.The chest retains a beautiful warm patina developed over more than a century of use. Minor marks and irregularities in the wood contribute to its authentic character.Thanks to its compact size, this tansu works beautifully today as a side cabinet, bedside chest or decorative storage piece, bringing traditional Japanese craftsmanship into contemporary interiors.

Object: Small Japanese tansu chestOrigin: JapanPeriod: Late Meiji – early TaishōDate: Circa 1890–1926Materials: Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica), paulownia (Paulownia spp.), ironDimensions: Width: 31 cm Depth: 39 cm Height: 48 cmDrawers: 3Condition: Very good condition consistent with age See less