SAVE 30% Antique Japanese Isho Dansu Kannon Biraki Top Section Kiri Iron Hardware Meiji 37"W

Japanese kasane isho dansu upper section, kannon biraki (観音開き) hinged doors with marugane circular lock, kiri paulownia, hand-forged iron hardware, Meiji period

Japan; Meiji period, late 19th–early 20th century

The upper section of a Japanese kasane isho dansu (重ね衣装箪笥) — the stacking kimono storage chest — in kannon biraki (観音開き) configuration, named for the outward-swinging double doors that open like the arms of the bodhisattva Kannon. The front face is organized around a large circular iron lock plate (marugane, 丸金具) centered on the door junction, fitted with the characteristic butterfly latch mechanism that engages both doors simultaneously. Vertical iron strap reinforcements descend from the top edge and rise from the bottom edge on each side of the lock plate, with horizontal cross-bar straps creating a bold ladder pattern across the front face — a hardware arrangement that is simultaneously structural, securing the door panels against warping, and decorative, giving the piece its characteristic graphic strength. Corner brackets and edge straps reinforce the case at all vulnerable junctions. Side carrying handles (kan, 鐶) are mounted on iron back plates at each end for transport. The piece rests on iron casters. The interior holds two drawers.

The wood is kiri (桐, paulownia) — the pale honey-toned wood with fine straight grain specifically chosen for kimono storage across centuries of Japanese practice. Kiri is uniquely suited to this purpose: it is among the lightest of Japanese hardwoods, expands slightly with humidity to naturally seal drawer and door gaps against moisture ingress, and has natural insect-repellent properties that protect silk garments stored within. The surface has developed a clean, dry patina consistent with age.

This piece has been respectfully restored (not refinished) in-house in the manner that Shogun's Gallery has been caring for Japanese treasures for over 45 years.

• Form: Kasane isho dansu upper section (重ね衣装箪笥), kannon biraki (観音開き) hinged double doors
• Construction: Kiri (桐) paulownia; hand-forged iron hardware: marugane circular lock plate with butterfly latch, vertical and horizontal strap reinforcements with square-head rivets, corner brackets, side carrying handles (kan); iron casters
• Interior: Two drawers
• Period: Meiji period, late 19th–early 20th century
• Dimensions: 37"W × 17"D × 20"H (94 cm × 43 cm × 51 cm)
• Weight:
• Condition: Sound and stable. Surface shows age-appropriate patina. Please see photos for details.