Antique Japanese Isho Tansu (Kasane Stacking Chest), Meiji, 1868-1911 | SKU: 26J-B004

Antique Japanese Isho Tansu (Kasane Stacking Chest), Meiji, 1868-1911 | SKU: 26J-B004

A monumental two-section isho tansu dressed in boldly figured kiri wood and commanding iron hardware -- a defining example of Meiji-era Japanese antique furniture.

A kasane tansu is a traditional Japanese stacking chest composed of two separable sections, each housing its own drawers and small compartments, designed so the cases could be carried independently when a household relocated. This format was widely used during the Meiji period (1868-1911) to store folded kimono, obi, and household textiles, and the finest examples were built with kiri wood (paulownia) -- prized for its light weight, gentle moisture regulation, and insect-repelling properties that protected precious garments. The front of this chest is defined by a series of graduated drawers fitted with recessed rectangular metal drawer pulls, all anchored by large oval iron lock plates with decorative knob-and-keyhole fittings -- a hallmark of high-quality provincial tansu craftsmanship. Iron corner reinforcements, nail-studded edge strapping, and robust side carrying handles complete the exterior, while the clean, unfinished interiors of the open drawers reveal the pale, straight-grained kiri wood in excellent condition. Branded ownership or inventory marks stamped into the side panels add a rare layer of provenance and personal history seldom seen on surviving pieces of this quality.

In a modern home, this handcrafted Japanese tansu brings both generous storage and dramatic visual presence. Placed in a bedroom, it functions beautifully as a full-size dresser or clothing chest, its warm honey-toned wood and dark iron hardware complementing Japandi style interiors, wabi-sabi aesthetic spaces, and mid-century modern rooms alike. In a living room or entryway, the broad flat top invites display -- a curated arrangement of ceramics, books, or botanicals -- while the multiple drawers quietly organize linens, accessories, or keepsakes below. The lower section, with its cluster of smaller compartments, works equally well as a standalone accent piece or side table in a home office or hallway. A truly exceptional gift for collectors of Japanese antique furniture or anyone drawn to the enduring beauty of handmade objects.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Meiji, 1868-1911
• Material: Kiri wood (paulownia) body; iron hardware including oval lock plates with decorative knob fittings, recessed rectangular drawer pulls, corner reinforcements, edge strapping, and side carrying handles
• Use: Clothing and textile storage; two-section kasane (stacking) tansu designed for portability and household organization
• Modern Use: Bedroom dresser or clothing chest; living room or entryway statement furniture with display surface; home office or hallway storage cabinet
• Features: Unusual width two stacking sections with multiple graduated drawers and a cluster of smaller compartments at lower right; large oval iron lock plates with decorative knob-and-keyhole hardware on each section; recessed rectangular metal drawer pulls throughout; iron corner reinforcements and nail-studded edge strapping; side iron carrying handles; branded ownership or inventory marks stamped into the side panels; clean pale kiri wood drawer interiors
• Dimensions: 41"W x 17"D x 43"H
• Condition: Excellent

A commanding piece of Japanese antique furniture -- over a century of quiet craftsmanship, now ready to anchor any modern room with warmth, history, and unmistakable character.

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.