Antique Japanese Isho Tansu (Kasane Clothing Chest), Taisho Period 1912-1926 | SKU: 26M-A010

Antique Japanese Isho Tansu (Kasane Clothing Chest), Taisho Period 1912-1926 | SKU: 26M-A010

A stately Taisho-era isho tansu in warm hardwood -- combining sliding door cabinet, compact drawers, and deep full-width drawers in one commanding form.

An isho tansu is a traditional Japanese clothing chest designed to store folded kimono and textiles in an organized, protective arrangement. This handsome example, crafted during the Taisho period (1912--1926), follows the classic two-section stacking format known as kasane tansu, with ornate forged iron corner hardware securing each stacked body. The upper section features a pair of sliding doors concealing open shelving alongside a column of compact side drawers -- a configuration ideal for storing smaller folded garments and personal items. Below, a series of deep full-width drawers provide generous storage, each fitted with a cast metal bail pull and a recessed lock escutcheon at center. The wood -- a straight, tightly grained hardwood consistent with nara (Japanese oak) or a similar dense species -- has aged to a rich honey-amber tone that highlights the natural figure of every board. The construction throughout reflects the refined joinery traditions of early 20th-century Japanese antique furniture, with careful attention to fit and finish that has held beautifully over a century of use.

Standing nearly five feet tall with a generous width, this antique Japanese tansu brings substantial presence and practical storage to a modern home. Use it as a bedroom dresser -- its deep drawers handle folded clothing, linens, and accessories with ease -- or as a living room accent piece where the warm wood tones and handcrafted iron hardware complement Japandi style or wabi-sabi aesthetic interiors. The sliding door compartment works equally well as a display niche or concealed media storage. Positioned in an entryway, the chest makes a striking focal point for keys, scarves, and seasonal accessories. With its tall, architectural silhouette and honest materials, this piece is a thoughtful housewarming gift or a standout acquisition for collectors of Japanese antique furniture seeking something both beautiful and genuinely functional.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1912-1926 (Taisho)
• Material: Straight-grained hardwood, possibly nara (Japanese oak); forged iron hardware and corner fittings
• Use: Isho tansu -- traditional Japanese clothing chest for storing folded kimono and textiles
• Modern Use: Bedroom dresser and clothing storage; living room accent or media cabinet; entryway console with concealed storage
• Features: Two-section stacking kasane tansu construction; upper section with sliding door cabinet revealing open shelving; column of small side drawers; multiple full-width deep drawers below; cast metal bail pulls with recessed lock escutcheons; decorative forged iron corner strap hardware on sides
• Dimensions: 35 1/2"W x 15 1/2"D x 57 1/2"H
• Condition: Excellent

A commanding piece of Japanese antique furniture -- over a century of quiet craftsmanship ready to bring warmth, character, and generous storage to any modern interior.

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.