Antique 1895 Meiji Period Japanese Miniature Black Lacquer Tansu Chest Jewelry Box

Details

Description

Antique 1895 Meiji Period Japanese Miniature Black Lacquer Tansu Chest Jewelry Box

• Period: Late 19th Century (Meiji Era, dated … Read more Antique 1895 Meiji Period Japanese Miniature Black Lacquer Tansu Chest Jewelry Box

• Period: Late 19th Century (Meiji Era, dated 1895)
• Place of Origin: Japan
• Materials: Wood, Lacquer, Metal hardware
• Style: Ko-Dansu / Miniature Chest

A rare and exceptional late Meiji-period miniature Japanese tansu chest (ko-dansu), definitively dated via its hand-painted imagery to 1895 (Meiji 28). This charming three-drawer box features a brilliant black lacquer finish adorned with remarkably detailed, hand-painted gold maki-e motifs celebrating historical Japanese currency, prosperity, and wealth.
The drawer fronts display a fascinating combination of traditional feudal and modernized Meiji tokens. Notable details include an Edo-period silver rectangular 'Ichibu-gin' plaque bearing the official 'Ginza Jōze' stamp, a modern copper coin commemorating Greater Japan dated 'Meiji 28' (1895), an 'Isshu-kin' or 'Nishu-kin' gold token, and a central 'Minogame' (long-tailed mythical turtle) symbolizing longevity and fortune. The design is further accented with a samurai helmet (kabuto), defensive arrows, and lucky treasure bags.
The sides and back show an asymmetric botanical composition featuring hand-painted gold autumn grasses, red wild chrysanthemums, and a small flower sprig on the reverse. The drawers retain their original curved reddish-brown pulls and metallic corner reinforcements held by tiny decorative tacks. The bottom drawer slides open to reveal a protective dark lined interior, making this a highly functional jewelry box, desk organizer, or cabinet piece for collectors of Asian antiques.

Measures 5.75" x 5.25" x 3.5"

Condition:
Good - Vintage / Antique Condition
Condition Notes:
This authentic piece shows a beautiful, storied patina consistent with its 130-year history. There is minor chipping, hairline craquelure, and edge wear to the black lacquer surface, particularly along the drawer lips and top corners. The hand-painted gold and red iconography remains remarkably clear, vibrant, and legible. The drawers function smoothly, the metal hardware is secure, and the interior lining remains clean and intact. See less