Antique Japanese Tansu chest of drawers – Meiji / Taishō Period (c.1868-1926)
- Dimensions: Length: 92 cm Depth: 44 cm Height: 98 cm
- Style: Meiji
- Materials and Techniques: Paulownia (Paulownia spp.), Japanese Cedar (Cryptomeria japonica)
- Place of origin: Japan
- Epoch: Late Meiji, early Taishō period
- Date of manufacture: Circa 1868-1926
- Condition: Good. Wear commensurate with age and use.
This Japanese tansu from the Meiji period presents a solid, compact volume with a distinctly architectural presence. Its proportions are balanced and restrained, designed to provide efficient domestic storage while maintaining a sober visual language rooted in function.
The cabinet is constructed using a combination of paulownia (Paulownia spp.) and Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica). Paulownia is used for the drawer bodies and primary structural elements, offering lightness and dimensional stability, while Japanese cedar appears in secondary components, contributing warmth and smooth operation in environments subject to humidity changes.
The front is organized around four wide drawers, each fitted with original iron pulls and circular lock plates. Reinforced corner brackets and side handles emphasize the original purpose of the piece as a movable and durable storage unit. The exterior surfaces show a deep, matte patina, with abrasions, small losses, and softened edges that speak of long-term domestic use.
During the Meiji period (1868–1912), Japanese furniture evolved to accommodate new forms of household organization while preserving traditional woodworking techniques. Tansu from this era are characterized by their modular logic, structural clarity, and pragmatic use of materials. The presence of paulownia reflects a material culture centered on lightness, durability, and adaptability.
With its dimensions, this tansu works equally well as a chest of drawers, a low storage cabinet, or a strong focal element in contemporary, Japanese-inspired, or eclectic interiors.
The state of conservation is optimal, except for the characteristic imperfections of any antique produced by the passage of time.
Give a point of originality to your home with a unique piece, which merges with the contemporary style bringing personality to your home. This antique Japanese chest of drawers can be combined with any of our cabinets or with our available antique vases.
ONE OF A KIND
