Antique Early Meiji Japanese Storage Chest with Lid and Wrought Iron

Details

Description

Rare antique Japanese wooden storage chest with loose lid, dating from the early Meiji period, c. 1870–1890.

Dimensions: height 25 … Read more Rare antique Japanese wooden storage chest with loose lid, dating from the early Meiji period, c. 1870–1890.

Dimensions: height 25 cm, width 70.5 cm, depth 35.5 cm.

The chest is made of dark lacquered wood, with a beautifully weathered black-brown surface through which warm reddish-brown wood tones have become visible. The original wrought-iron hardware is still present, including corner mounts, reinforcing plates, rivets and a central front clasp. These metal details give the piece a robust, sober and almost architectural presence.

The interior is lighter in tone, with a simple wooden finish that contrasts beautifully with the dark exterior. The chest is in authentic antique condition, with age-related wear, scratches and traces of use consistent with its age, material and original function.

Originally used as a practical storage chest, today it works beautifully as a decorative interior piece. Thanks to its low, elongated shape, it is also ideal as a pedestal or display base for ikebana, floral arrangements, bonsai, ceramics or small art objects.

A powerful and atmospheric Japanese object from the early Meiji period, perfect as a high-end wabi-sabi accent in a Japanese, minimalist, rustic, industrial or eclectic interior. See less