Antique Japanese Taisho Era 1920's Kiri Kodansu Personal Tansu 5 Drawer 23"W

Antique Japanese Taisho Era Kiri Wood Kodansu Personal Tansu Chest with 5 drawers 18.5"H

Taisho era, c. ealry 1900s
23.25"W x 11.25"D x 18.5"H

Traditional Japanese kodansu (small cabinet chest) crafted from kiri wood (paulownia), a material historically favored in Japan for its light weight, dimensional stability, and natural resistance to humidity and insects. This compact merchant-style chest reflects the transitional aesthetics of the Taisho period, blending refined craftsmanship with practical storage design.

The layout features sliding cabinet doors above multi-drawer storage, offering a balanced and functional composition typical of domestic and shop-use furniture from the period. Original iron hardware, recessed pulls, and lock plates remain intact, showing natural patina consistent with age. The warm, dry surface tone and visible grain structure of the kiri wood give the piece a quiet, understated presence.

Interior compartments are clean and well-preserved, making this an ideal piece for functional use, display storage, or as a sculptural furniture object in both traditional and modern interiors. Suitable for use as a side cabinet, entry piece, display chest, or collector’s furniture.

Condition:
Good antique condition. Honest age-appropriate wear throughout including surface wear, minor scuffs, small marks, and patina to wood and hardware. Structurally solid, drawers and doors operate properly. No major repairs or structural issues observed.

We often have custom iron bases made for tansu such as this to bring it up to your preferred elevation. These take 3-6 week to have made and add around $300 to the overall cost. Please inquire for details on order a custom solid iron stand.