Description
This two-section antique Japanese Kasane Tansu embodies the refined balance of utility and artistry that defines traditional Japanese cabinetry. Constructed of richly grained Keyaki (zelkova) with Hinoki secondary wood, the chest displays a warm amber-brown patina enhanced by generations of careful use and age.
The façade is adorned with bold iron hardware including rounded Mokko-style bail handles, stylized chrysanthemum escutcheons, and circular lock plates with matching chrysanthemum-form lock knobs. Intricately worked corner brackets and forged iron fittings provide both visual strength and architectural rhythm across the chest’s symmetrical composition.
The interior arrangement offers four spacious drawers, while a hinged security door conceals three smaller drawers intended for valuables, documents, or personal effects — a traditional feature prized in quality merchant and clothing chests of the period. The chest separates into two stackable sections for transport and versatility, with original side carrying handles preserving its functional wealthy-house heritage.
An exceptional example of Japanese joinery and metalwork, this Kasane Tansu serves equally well as a functional storage cabinet or a sculptural statement piece within sophisticated interiors.
Age: Meiji period (circa 1880-1890)
Dimensions: 35 3/4″ wide by 18 5/8″ deep by 39 1/4″ high