Rare Antique Sakata Funa Hon Tansu Document Chest Keyaki Edo Era

Description

A rare antique Japanese Sakata Funa Hon Tansu (ship captain’s document chest) made of Keyaki burl (Zelkova) in front and Keyaki frame. All original hand forged iron hardware and Urushi lacquer finish. Side carrying handles made of Kaki (Persimmon) wood.

Used in a ship captain’s quarters to store valuable documents and books. In the event of a pirate attack, these chests were tied by rope and thrown overboard to prevent them from becoming part of the loot. Once the attack was over, they would be pulled out of the water and secured.

Age: Edo Period (1800-1850)

Dimensions: 20 1/4″ Wide by 10 1/4″ High by 12 1/2″ Deep