Japanese Cedar Tansu
Japan
Meiji Period
Cedar, bronze
15 ½” wide x 12” deep x 20 ½” high
In Japan, the tansu was developed during the Edo and Meiji periods as mobile and modular storage. Generally, they were lightweight, sturdy and stackable, with iron handles that would allow them to be carried swiftly away from a fire or other natural disaster. This tansu has a richly worn and deeply patinated surface from decades of use. The original metal hardware is the only ornamentation for an otherwise minimalist design. Six drawers offer ample storage for your curios.
Versatile as a case piece or side table.






