Antique Japanese Tea Chest — Kuri, 1920, Taisho Era (SKU: 25D-C304)

Antique Japanese Tea Chest (SKU 25D-C304)

Taishō-period cha-tansu with rich persimmon-toned finish and original hardware

This handsome antique Japanese tea chest, or cha-tansu, features a beautifully grained façade in a deep reddish-brown lacquer that highlights the natural movement of the wood. The composition is classically balanced: a pair of upper drawers, sliding panel doors at center, and a bank of smaller drawers below, all framed in clean, rectilinear lines that speak to early 20th-century Japanese design.

Round, floral-form metal pulls on the sliding doors and simple iron drawer handles retain a mellow patina, underscoring the chest’s age and authenticity. Inside, the cabinet offers practical open storage behind the doors and multiple drawers ideal for tea utensils, ceramics, or modern everyday items, making it a versatile piece that transitions easily from a traditional tokonoma setting to a contemporary interior.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Taishō period (early 20th century)
• Material: Hardwood with stained and lacquered finish; metal hardware
• Use: Traditional cha-tansu tea chest for storing tea utensils, ceramics, and household items
• Features: Multiple drawers and sliding doors, visible wood grain, warm persimmon-red finish, original metal pulls with floral motif, compact tansu form suitable for modern storage or display
• Dimensions: 22 3/4"W x 14 1/4"D x 33"H
• Condition: Very good vintage condition with age-appropriate wear, small surface marks, and patina to hardware

A refined Taishō-era tansu that brings the quiet elegance of the Japanese tea room into 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.