Antique Japanese Ko Tansu Small Chest With Multi-sized, Simplified Kanagu Pull Drawers - 1920s Taisho Era (25D-G007)

Antique Japanese Ko Tansu Small Chest With Multi Sized Simplified Kanagu Pull Drawers (SKU 25D-G007)

Compact Taishō-era ko tansu with clean lines, multi-sized drawers, and simplified kanagu hardware.

This antique Japanese ko tansu is a beautifully restrained small chest, likely crafted in the early 20th century. The warm, straight-grained sugi (cedar) or similar softwood case is arranged in a classic stepped drawer configuration: two smaller drawers above and three full-width drawers below, each fitted with simplified iron kanagu pulls. The overall form is rectilinear and unfussy, reflecting the transition from Meiji to Taishō sensibilities, where traditional joinery met a more modern, pared-back aesthetic.

Designed as a portable storage chest, this ko tansu offers practical organization for textiles, documents, or personal accessories while remaining modest in scale for contemporary interiors. Original lock escutcheons and a working key are present on several drawers, and black iron corner plates reinforce the side, hinting at its history of careful use. With its honest patina, smooth-running drawers, and versatile proportions, it is equally at home as a bedside chest, entryway storage, or a focal accent in a wabi-sabi inspired space.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Taishō period (early 20th century, c. 1920s)
• Material: Softwood (likely sugi/cedar) with iron kanagu hardware
• Use: Ko tansu storage chest for clothing, documents, or general household organization
• Features: Multi-sized drawers; simplified kanagu pulls; lockable drawers with key; side corner plates; warm natural patina; smooth, functional drawers
• Dimensions: 26 1/4"W x 15 1/2"D x 30 7/8"H
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition with light wear and patina consistent with age

A refined example of Taishō-era craftsmanship, this ko tansu brings authentic Japanese character and highly usable storage to any interior.

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.