Vintage Japanese Cha Tansu Tea Shelf, 1966 - 1989 (Late Showa) | SKU: 26M-C023

Japanese Cha-Tansu Tea Cabinet | Vintage Bar Cart & Living Room Display Shelf, 1966-1989 (Late Showa), SKU 26M-C023

A striking red-and-black lacquered tea chest with hand-carved floral panels -- a bold statement piece from Late Showa Japan.

A cha-tansu is a traditional Japanese cabinet designed to store tea utensils, kettles, and ceremonial wares during the tea service -- a functional companion to the Japanese tea ceremony that reflected the household's aesthetic sensibility. This handcrafted Japanese antique cabinet presents in a dramatic two-tone finish: a deep black lacquer frame offsets rich red lacquered panels, both on the open display shelves above and the double-door storage compartment below. The flat display surfaces feature a finely combed, linear texture typical of Late Showa craft, while the door panels are adorned with deeply impressed carved motifs -- chrysanthemum blossoms, plum branches, and bamboo -- rendered with confident, artistic flourish. A maker's seal is visible on one of the lower door panels, adding collectible provenance to this vintage Japanese craft piece. The metal latch hardware securing the double doors is finished in a dark tone consistent with the overall palette.

Today this cha-tansu translates effortlessly into a modern home as a compact bar cart alternative or drinks cabinet -- the open upper shelves invite display of bottles, glassware, or a curated collection of ceramics, while the enclosed lower compartment keeps linens, barware, or media accessories neatly out of sight. Its compact footprint and bold red-and-black palette make it equally at home as a living room accent, an entryway console, or a bedroom decor statement piece in a Japandi style or wabi-sabi aesthetic interior. It would make a truly unique housewarming gift or a show-stopping addition to any collector of Japanese antique furniture.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Hardwood construction; red and black lacquer finish with hand-impressed carved panel decoration; dark metal latch hardware
• Use: Cha-tansu -- traditional Japanese cabinet for storing tea utensils and ceremonial wares
• Modern Use: Compact drinks cabinet or bar cart; living room display shelf for ceramics or collectibles; entryway console with enclosed storage
• Features: Bold red-and-black two-tone lacquer finish; open upper display shelves with finely textured red lacquer surfaces; double-door lower cabinet with deeply carved floral motifs -- chrysanthemum, plum blossom, and bamboo -- on each door panel; dark metal latch closures; maker's seal impressed on lower door panel
• Dimensions: 19"W x 11 1/2"D x 20 1/2"H
• Inspector: Fukutsuka
• Condition: Excellent

A boldly lacquered piece of Japanese antique furniture that brings artisan craftsmanship and dramatic color to any modern living 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.