Antique Japanese Ko Tansu Small Chest With Multi-sized Warabite Pull Drawers - 1900s Meiji Era (25D-G409)

Antique Japanese Ko Tansu Small Chest With Multi Sized Warabite Pull Drawers (SKU 25D-G409)

Compact Meiji-era ko tansu with beautifully arranged multi-sized drawers and classic warabite pulls

This antique Japanese ko tansu (small chest) presents a harmonious balance of function and simplicity, with a warm kiri (paulownia) wood framed by robust black iron hardware. The façade is organized in a distinctive asymmetrical layout: a bank of wide drawers paired with a vertical stack of smaller drawers, each fitted with traditional warabite-style pulls that echo the understated refinement of Meiji-period cabinetry.

Designed originally as a personal storage chest, this piece works equally well today as an entry or tabletop tansu, media stand, or organizer for textiles and tableware. The hand-forged corner brackets, lock plates, and drawer pulls add graphic contrast against the softly patinated wood, while the clean lines and low profile make it an easy addition to both wabi-sabi interiors and modern minimalist spaces.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Meiji period (circa early 20th century)
• Material: kiri (paulownia) wood with hand-forged iron hardware
• Use: Ko tansu storage chest for clothing, documents, or small household items; ideal as a low side chest or tabletop tansu
• Features: Multi-sized warabite pull drawers; asymmetrical drawer configuration; black iron corner brackets and lock plates; warm natural finish with visible grain; traditional Japanese joinery
• Dimensions: 23 1/2"W x 11 1/4"D x 17"H
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition with light age-appropriate wear and patina to wood and hardware

A versatile ko tansu that brings authentic Meiji-era craftsmanship and understated Japanese elegance to any room.

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.