Antique Japanese Meiji Period Keyaki Two-Piece Stacking Tansu Chest With Hidden Drawers & Original Key

Details

Description

A remarkable and highly decorative Japanese Meiji Period stacking tansu chest crafted from richly figured keyaki (Japanese zelkova) and adorned … Read more A remarkable and highly decorative Japanese Meiji Period stacking tansu chest crafted from richly figured keyaki (Japanese zelkova) and adorned throughout with hand-forged iron hardware.

This impressive two-piece chest embodies the timeless craftsmanship for which Japanese tansu are celebrated. Constructed in separate upper and lower sections for portability, the chest was designed to accompany its owners through generations while providing secure storage for clothing, valuables, documents, and household treasures.

The beautifully figured keyaki wood displays exceptional grain movement throughout, with dramatic swirling patterns and warm amber-to-chestnut coloration creating a captivating visual presence. The naturally expressive grain is complemented by an extensive array of forged iron corner brackets, hinges, side carrying handles, drawer pulls, and decorative lock plates.

Particularly striking are the large circular escutcheons featuring traditional bamboo and bird motifs. In Japanese culture, bamboo symbolizes strength, resilience, and prosperity, while birds represent happiness, freedom, and good fortune. These symbolic embellishments transform the chest from a functional storage piece into a work of decorative art.

The lower section conceals a locking cabinet door that opens to reveal two hidden interior drawers, an ingenious feature often found in higher-quality tansu. These secret compartments were traditionally used for storing important family documents, currency, jewelry, and personal valuables.

The chest retains its original side carrying handles and key, further enhancing its authenticity and desirability among collectors. The rear plank construction and visible traditional joinery serve as reminders of the skilled artisans who handcrafted this piece over a century ago.

Equally at home in a refined traditional setting or a contemporary Japandi interior, this extraordinary tansu serves as a stunning dresser, storage cabinet, sideboard, or focal-point statement piece.

Rich in history, craftsmanship, and character, this antique Japanese chest offers both exceptional functionality and enduring beauty.

Details:
Antique Japanese stacking tansu
Meiji Period, circa 1880–1910
Two-piece construction
Keyaki (Japanese zelkova) wood
Hand-forged iron hardware
Decorative bamboo and bird escutcheons
Original carrying handles
Hidden interior drawers
Original key included
Traditional plank back construction
Warm aged patina throughout


Condition:
Good antique condition consistent with age and use. The chest presents beautifully while retaining the character expected of a piece over a century old. Surface wear, scratches, minor separations, finish variation, and scattered imperfections are present and contribute to its authentic antique appeal. Original hardware displays a desirable aged patina. Original key included.


Measurements:
Overall:
Width: 45.25 in.
Depth: 17.375 in.
Height: 50.375 in.

Upper Section:
Width: 45.25 in.
Depth: 17.375 in.
Height: 26.625 in.

Lower Section:
Width: 45.25 in.
Depth: 17.375 in.
Height: 23.75 in.



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