Description

A refined and beautifully proportioned Japanese low chest, crafted in richly grained burl keyaki (elm) wood and designed in a compact horizontal format. This elegant piece features three drawers across the front, each fitted with traditional iron ring pulls and decorative backplates, combining both utility and understated aesthetic strength

The surface reveals the natural beauty of keyaki, prized in Japan for its durability and striking grain patterns. Over time, the wood has developed a deep, warm patina, with subtle figuring visible across the drawer fronts and frame. The restrained form allows the material itself to take precedence, highlighting the craftsmanship and the inherent elegance of the timber.

Each drawer is constructed with care, offering smooth functionality while maintaining structural integrity. The iron hardware, with its softly aged finish, provides a pleasing contrast against the warm tones of the wood, reinforcing the balance between strength and refinement.

This type of low chest would have been used for the storage of documents, writing implements, or personal items, often placed on a desk or within a study setting. Its horizontal orientation and compact scale make it both practical and versatile, suitable for modern interiors while retaining its historical character.

Age: Early meiji period 1868 – 1912

Dimensions: 24″ long x 14″ deep x 6 1/3″ high