Traditional Iwayado Kuruma-Dansu on Wooden Wheels, Japan, 1960s

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This large Japanese Iwayado kuruma-dansu is an impressive traditional storage cabinet with a richly detailed front, wooden wheels and heavy … Read more This large Japanese Iwayado kuruma-dansu is an impressive traditional storage cabinet with a richly detailed front, wooden wheels and heavy metal fittings. The piece combines functionality with a strong decorative presence. The keyaki front, Japanese zelkova wood, has a warm reddish-brown sheen and a lively grain pattern that gives the cabinet depth and character.

Dimensions: height 108 cm, width 120 cm, depth 45 cm. Weight: 68 kg.

The layout is practical and beautifully balanced. At the front, four large drawers and two smaller drawers are visible, finished with metal handles and locks. On the right side there is a hinged door; behind it are three smaller hidden drawers, adding extra storage space and a layered construction.

The cabinet comes with a key; it works on most of the locks and also on the lockable retaining bar, or bō, used to secure the drawers. Not all locks work with this key.

The combination of the rich keyaki front, the more soberly finished sides, the robust metal carrying handles and the wooden wheels highlights the original mobile character of the cabinet. Kuruma-dansu were designed as wheeled storage chests, allowing valuable possessions to be moved quickly to safety in times of emergency, for example during a fire.

Today, this is an exceptionally strong interior piece. It works beautifully as a characterful storage cabinet in a living room, entrance hall, office or shop interior, but also as a statement piece with warmth and presence. The wide top surface is ideal for displaying ceramics, ikebana, sculptural objects or other carefully selected pieces.

The cabinet is in beautiful vintage condition, with signs of use, patina and age-related wear consistent with its age and function. A highly decorative and complete Japanese kuruma-dansu, with strong proportions, rich details and a powerful presence in the room. See less