Small antique Japanese cupboard – Meiji / Taishō Period (c.1890-1926)
- Dimensions: Length: 36 cm Depth: 49 cm Height: 79 cm
- Style: Meiji
- Materials and techniques: Japanese Cedar (Cryptomeria japonica)
- Place of origin: Japan
- Epoch: Late Meiji, early Taishō period
- Date of manufacture: Circa 1890-1926
- Condition: Good. Wear commensurate with age and use.
This small Japanese cabinet from the Meiji period belongs to a typology of narrow vertical storage furniture, designed to optimize space within domestic interiors. Its compact width and modest depth suggest an auxiliary use, intended for storing personal items, documents, or everyday objects.
The piece is crafted from Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica), a light and stable wood widely used in late 19th-century Japanese furniture for its resistance to humidity. The interior is organized with fixed shelves, while the exterior construction is reinforced with original iron fittings at corners and structural points.
The hinged front door retains its original iron pull and a simple, durable locking system. The surface displays a deep and honest patina, with visible wear, localized losses of finish, abrasion marks, and areas lightened by repeated handling, particularly along edges and around the door frame. These traces are consistent with long-term use and contribute to the piece’s authentic wabi-sabi character.
During the Meiji period (1868–1912), Japanese furniture evolved to accommodate new domestic layouts while preserving traditional craftsmanship. Pieces like this reflect a material culture focused on efficiency, durability, and structural clarity.
With its dimensions, this cabinet works naturally today as an auxiliary storage unit, small cupboard, entryway piece, or accent element in contemporary, Japanese-inspired, or wabi-sabi 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 small antique Japanese cabinet can be combined with any of our vases or with our available antique chests of drawers.
ONE OF A KIND
