Description

A rare antique Japanese Hangai Tansu (captain’s business transaction chest) made of Keyaki Tamamoku (Zelkova Burl) and Kirinoki (Paulownia) woods. All original translucent Urushi lacquer with hand made bronze hardware. Security door with two side trick latches and a top lock and key that hides 6 interior drawers of varying sizes. The trick latches unlock by lifting the knob up and to the right for the left latch and up and to the left for the right latch. Unusual feature where the outer sides of each drawer were lacquered to give a smooth slide when they were opened and closed. Constructed using traditional dovetail Japanese joinery and hardened wood nails. Inset Kakinoki (Persimmon) wood side carrying handles.

Similar use to a merchant Choba Tansu except the Hangai Tansu was seaworthy for travel on the open seas.

Age: 1800-1850 (Edo Period)

Dimensions: 20 3/4″ Wide by 14 1/2″ High by 14″ Deep