Antique Japanese Kodansu Multi-Drawer Chest, Taisho, circa 1912-1926 | SKU: 26M-G077

Antique Japanese Kodansu Multi-Drawer Chest, Taisho, circa 1912-1926 | SKU: 26M-G077

A compact multi-drawer tansu with asymmetric layout, drop-bail metal handles, and warm straight-grained wood -- a refined piece of antique Japanese furniture from the Taisho era.

A kodansu is a small Japanese chest of drawers used to organize personal sundries, sewing notions, writing supplies, or other fine household items. This handcrafted Japanese antique dates to the Taisho period (1912-1926), an era defined by a refined blending of traditional Japanese joinery and restrained decorative sensibility. The case is constructed from straight-grained hardwood -- likely keyaki (zelkova) -- displaying a warm amber tone and tight linear figure that has deepened beautifully with age. The asymmetric two-column layout of graduated drawers is a hallmark of quality Japanese craft from this period, providing varied storage compartments suited to items of different sizes. Each drawer is fitted with a darkened drop-bail metal handle of graceful curved form, while select drawers feature large round wooden escutcheons centered on the drawer face -- a detail both practical and visually striking. Integrated side carrying handles add to the chest's portability, confirming its original role as a personal, movable storage piece.

Today this kodansu is as versatile as it is beautiful. Its compact footprint -- just under two feet wide -- makes it ideal for bedroom decor as a jewelry box and accessory organizer, presenting rings, watches, and small keepsakes in dedicated drawers. On a home office desk or shelf it serves as a desktop organizer for stationery, cards, and small tools, bringing a wabi-sabi aesthetic to a modern workspace. It would also suit a bathroom counter or vanity as an elegant organizer for skincare and grooming items. The rich honey-toned wood and sculptural hardware make it a natural statement piece for Japandi-style interiors, and it would make a memorable gift for collectors of antique Japanese craft or anyone who appreciates handcrafted Japanese furniture with genuine history.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Taisho, circa 1912-1926
• Material: Straight-grained hardwood, possibly keyaki (zelkova); darkened drop-bail metal handles; round wooden escutcheons
• Use: Personal storage chest for household sundries, sewing supplies, writing implements, or small valuables
• Modern Use: Jewelry box and accessory organizer; desktop organizer for home office storage; bathroom vanity or skincare organizer
• Features: Asymmetric two-column drawer layout with multiple graduated drawers; drop-bail metal handles on each drawer; large round wooden lock escutcheons on select drawers; integrated side carrying handles; unfinished natural wood drawer interiors; warm age patina throughout
• Dimensions: 23"W x 11"D x 16"H
• Condition: Excellent

A rare and functional piece of antique Japanese furniture -- this Taisho-era kodansu brings over a century of quiet craftsmanship into any modern home.

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.