Antique Japanese Ko Tansu Chest, Taisho Era (1912-1926) | SKU: 26J-G042-2

Antique Japanese Ko Tansu Chest, Taisho Era (1912-1926) | SKU: 26J-G042-2

A compact antique Japanese ko tansu with warm wood grain, multiple drawers, and striking hand-forged iron hardware.

This antique Japanese ko tansu dates to the Taisho era (1912-1926) and offers a handsome small-scale form with practical drawer storage. The chest is made of wood with a beautifully visible straight grain and a mellow honey-brown tone developed through age and use. Across the front, dark iron hardware creates a bold architectural rhythm: swing pulls on each drawer, protective corner mounts, and an especially dramatic reinforced section at the right side lend the piece its distinctive character. The proportions are compact and versatile, making it easy to place while still offering substantial visual presence.

In a modern home, this antique Japanese chest works well as a small accent cabinet, low entryway piece, or decorative storage chest in a living room, bedroom, or study. The varied drawer arrangement is useful for organizing smaller household items, papers, textiles, or personal accessories. Its low profile also allows the top surface to be used for display, whether styled with ceramics, books, or ikebana. For interiors that favor wabi-sabi, folk craft, or Japandi-inspired restraint, this ko tansu brings warmth, history, and functional beauty in equal measure.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Taisho, approximately 1912-1926
• Material: Kiri Wood with iron hardware
• Use: Small chest of drawers (ko tansu) for household storage
• Modern Use: Entryway storage chest; low accent cabinet; bedroom or living room organizer; display surface for decorative objects
• Features: Compact rectangular form; multiple drawers in varied widths; dark iron swing pulls; iron corner brackets and reinforcements; side carrying handles; richly visible horizontal wood grain
• Dimensions: 27 3/4"W x 14"D x 23 1/4"H
• Condition: Good antique condition with age-appropriate wear

A genuine antique Japanese furnishing with compact scale, practical storage, and bold ironwork that gives the piece lasting presence.

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.