Antique Japanese Meiji Ishōdansu Kimono Tansu Chest Sugi Wood 38"H

Antique Japanese Ishodansu Merchant Chest with Iron Locking Bar 38"H

Japan, Meiji period 1868-1912
Dimensions: 38"H × 37"W × 16"D

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This antique Japanese ishodansu is a compact merchant chest built for secure household or shop storage, combining practical drawer organization with heavy iron reinforcement. The case is constructed in sugi (Japanese cedar), chosen for its light weight and stability, while the drawer faces are made of keyaki (Japanese zelkova), valued for its strength, pronounced grain, and resistance to wear. Drawer interiors are kiri (paulownia), traditionally used for its moisture resistance and insect-repellent properties.

The chest features four drawers, secured by a full-height central locking bar with riveted iron plates, ring pull, and decorative lock hardware. Hand-forged iron corner guards, drawer pulls, and fittings reinforce the structure and reflect the utilitarian priorities of merchant furniture rather than ornamental display. The overall form emphasizes durability, security, and efficient access.

The warm reddish-brown surface tone results from a traditional finish combining persimmon tannin stain (kakishibu) and lacquer, a common treatment for working tansu. Kakishibu provided natural protection against insects and moisture while deepening the wood tone over time, and the lacquer layer added durability and a subtle sheen. Together, these finishes have aged into a rich, varied surface with visible grain and tonal depth.

Ishodansu were everyday working furniture, not prestige objects, and pieces like this were expected to accumulate wear through constant use. The honest condition of this chest—visible grain movement, softened edges, and layered surface wear—speaks to its long service life and authenticity rather than later restoration or cosmetic refinement.

Condition: Structurally sound with expected age-related wear throughout, including scratches, abrasions, finish loss, and edge wear; keyaki drawer faces show grain movement and surface wear, iron hardware displays dark patina and oxidation, and sliding elements operate as intended.

A strong, character-rich example of Japanese merchant furniture, well suited for collectors or interiors seeking authentic tansu with functional storage, traditional materials, and deeply developed surface presence.