Antique Japanese Funa Tansu With Metal Stand, Meiji 1868-1911

Antique Japanese Funa Tansu With Metal Stand, Meiji 1868-1911

A compact Meiji-period funa tansu with bold forged-iron hardware, a single front door, and an interior fitted with drawers for secure onboard storage.

This Japanese funa tansu dates to the Meiji period (1868-1911) and features the strong, practical construction associated with portable chest cabinetry. The rectangular wooden case is finished in a warm reddish-brown tone and fully reinforced with hand-forged iron straps, corner mounts, and rows of prominent iron studs across the front. The facade is especially striking, with decorative pierced fittings, a large lock assembly, and multiple iron-mounted horizontal elements at the right side that give the piece its distinctive architectural presence. A heavy iron carry handle is set into the top, underscoring the chest's portable utility.

The front opens on hinges to reveal a fitted interior with two drawers, each finished with simple iron pulls. The chest's tall, narrow proportions make it an appealing accent piece for a study, entry, or bedroom, while the dramatic ironwork gives it strong visual impact in a contemporary interior. Presented on a modern black display stand (later addition), it works beautifully as a sculptural storage piece and a collectible example of Japanese antique furniture.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Meiji, 1868-1911
• Material: Wood body with hand-forged iron hardware
• Use: Portable chest with hinged front door and interior drawers for organized storage
• Modern Use: Accent cabinet, side chest, or decorative storage in an entryway, study, or bedroom
• Features: Hinged front door; fitted interior with two drawers; extensive iron strapwork and studded hardware; large exterior lock assembly; iron carry handle on top; modern black display stand (later addition)
• Dimensions: 13 3/4"W x 18 3/4"D x 29"H
• Condition: Good antique condition with age-appropriate wear to wood and metal surfaces

A handsome and compact Japanese chest -- practical in form, dramatic in ironwork, and full of character from every angle.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All antique items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.