Antique Japanese Ko Tansu Small Chest With Distinctive Kanagu Hardware Drawers - 1920s Taisho Era (25D-G027)

Antique Japanese Ko Tansu Small Chest With Distinctive Kanagu Hardware Drawers (SKU 25D-G027)

Compact Taishō-era ko tansu with bold iron kanagu and beautifully grained timber

This handsome antique Japanese ko tansu (small chest) presents a clean, rectilinear form enlivened by richly patinated iron kanagu. Four full-width drawers over a pair of smaller lower drawers provide practical storage, while the warm, honey-toned wood and rhythmic placement of round lock plates and bail pulls give the piece a quiet, architectural presence. Side carry handles and corner brackets speak to its original role as a portable chest in a traditional machiya townhouse.

The surface shows the soft sheen and subtle wear expected of a well-cared-for Taishō-period tansu, with forged iron hardware retaining an attractive dark rust-brown finish. Ideal as an entry, bedside, or living room storage piece, this ko tansu bridges Japanese folk craft and modern interiors, offering both everyday function and an authentic wabi-sabi accent.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Taishō period (early 20th century)
• Material: Solid wood with hand-forged iron kanagu hardware
• Use: Ko tansu storage chest for clothing, documents, or small household items
• Features: Distinctive kanagu hardware, four long drawers plus two small lower drawers, round lock plates, recessed bail pulls, side carry handles, warm natural finish, traditional joinery
• Dimensions: --
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition with minor wear and patina consistent with age

A refined yet understated ko tansu that brings authentic Taishō-era character and versatile storage to any space.

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 vintage and 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.