Description

A Japanese kaidan tansu (stair chest) crafted in a dramatic three-section ascending form, executed in richly grained keyaki wood with warm amber-red tones and hand-forged style iron hardware. Designed as a fully bi-directional piece, the cabinet can be oriented to face either left or right, allowing exceptional flexibility within an interior while preserving the sculptural stepped silhouette traditional to Japanese staircase chests.

The composition features an elegant arrangement of sliding doors, concealed storage compartments, and graduated drawers integrated seamlessly into the architectural form. The stepped configuration creates a dynamic visual rhythm while offering substantial storage capacity across the three modular sections. Traditional lattice-style sliding doors balance the bold geometry with refined craftsmanship, while the dark iron pulls provide subtle contrast against the luminous wood grain.

Raised on its original fitted stand, the piece has an elevated, gallery-quality presentation that distinguishes it from standard kaidan forms. The versatile scale allows it to function equally well as a statement storage cabinet, room divider, display piece, or architectural focal point within both contemporary and traditional interiors.

The beautifully figured keyaki displays dramatic movement throughout, particularly across the drawer fronts and sliding panels, emphasizing the natural character and depth of the wood. Clean interior cabinetry and generous drawer depth make the piece highly practical for modern living while maintaining the timeless aesthetic associated with classic Japanese tansu craftsmanship.

A bold and sophisticated interpretation of the traditional Japanese stair chest form.

Age: Late 20th Century

Dimensions: 64 1/2″ wide by 18 1/2″deep by 67″high