Description

A charming and well-proportioned Japanese cha tansu (tea chest) from the Meiji period, crafted with a keyaki (zelkova) hardwood frame and a thoughtful arrangement of storage elements for tea service.

This compact cabinet features a balanced composition of sliding doors, open shelving, and a lower drawer, designed for both function and quiet visual harmony. The upper sliding doors retain their original paper panels, softly decorated with minimalist landscape scenes, now beautifully aged to a warm, muted tone.

The lower cabinet doors showcase expressive wood grain, framed by the rich, durable keyaki hardwood, prized in Japan for its strength and dramatic figuring. The single drawer is fitted with a traditional metal handle, adding a subtle contrast to the warm wood tones.

The asymmetrical layout—so characteristic of tea furniture—reflects the Japanese aesthetic of intentional imbalance and refined simplicity, making this piece both functional and visually compelling.

Keyaki (Japanese zelkova) is one of the most valued hardwoods in traditional Japanese woodworking. Known for its strength, durability, and striking grain patterns, it was often reserved for high-quality furniture, architectural elements, and important cabinetry.

Cha tansu were used in traditional Japanese interiors for the storage and preparation of tea wares. Smaller examples like this were designed for intimate settings, offering easy access to ceramics, utensils, and serving pieces while maintaining a refined presence within the room.

During the Meiji period (1868–1912), such pieces blended practicality with elegant craftsmanship, reflecting both domestic life and evolving design sensibilities.

Age: Circa 1920’s

Dimensions: 21 1/2″ x 21 1/2″ x 10″