Antique Japanese Desk Chest

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Antique Japanese desk chest with three drawers crafted in Japanese chestnut (Castanea crenata) and Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica), Japan, late … Read more Antique Japanese desk chest with three drawers crafted in Japanese chestnut (Castanea crenata) and Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica), Japan, late Meiji to early Taishō period, circa 1890-1926.Small drawer chests of this type were commonly used on desks in Japanese homes, shops and offices during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Their compact design allowed the storage of documents, writing tools and everyday objects while keeping them easily accessible.The structure is mainly made of Japanese chestnut, a durable and resilient wood widely used in traditional Japanese furniture making. The drawers are constructed from Japanese cedar, a lighter wood that allows smooth sliding and reduces overall weight.The front features a characteristic configuration with one long upper drawer and two smaller lower drawers. The simple metal handles and the central key plate reflect the restrained and practical aesthetic typical of Japanese furniture from the transitional Meiji to Taishō period.The surface displays a deep natural patina developed through decades of use. Subtle marks, tonal variations and gentle wear testify to the chest’s utilitarian history and add richness and authenticity to the piece.Today these small Japanese drawer chests are appreciated both as functional desk organizers and decorative pieces. Their compact proportions and understated design allow them to integrate beautifully into contemporary interiors.Details Dimensions: Width: 49 cm Depth: 26 cm Height: 22 cm Style: Meiji Materials and techniques: Japanese chestnut (Castanea crenata), Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) Place of origin: Japan Period: Late Meiji, early Taishō period Date of manufacture: Circa 1890-1926This piece is part of the collection of Amaru Antiques, Barcelona. See less