Antique Japanese Three Section Kimono Tansu Clothing Chest, 1912 - 1926 (Taisho) | SKU: 26M-A051

Japanese Isho Tansu Clothing Chest | Antique Bedroom Dresser & Entryway Storage, 1912-1926 (Taisho), SKU 26M-A051

A tall three-section kimono tansu in warm kiri wood -- a commanding piece of handcrafted Japanese antique furniture.

An isho tansu is a traditional Japanese clothing chest designed specifically to store folded kimono and accessories. Built in three stackable sections, this Taisho-era example exemplifies the refined craft tradition of the period -- a time when Japanese furniture makers blended practical ingenuity with quietly elegant aesthetics. The chest is constructed from kiri (paulownia), the classic wood of choice for isho tansu, prized for its light weight, natural resistance to moisture and insects, and gentle warmth that deepens beautifully with age. The uppermost section features a pair of double-panel doors that open to reveal a roomy interior cabinet with a fitted small-drawer insert -- ideal for storing accessories or folded textiles out of sight. Below the cabinet doors sits a row of smaller side-by-side drawers, followed by a series of generously proportioned full-width drawers that run through the lower two sections. Every drawer is fitted with a brass ring pull and a round brass knob, while the section joins are reinforced with boldly shaped iron hardware on the sides -- a hallmark of quality Taisho tansu construction. The straight-grained kiri surfaces glow with a warm honey tone, showing the natural patina that only a century of careful use can produce.

In a modern home, this stately isho tansu makes a stunning statement piece wherever generous storage meets a love of Japandi style or wabi-sabi aesthetic. Standing tall, it works beautifully as a bedroom dresser -- the deep full-width drawers handle folded clothing, linens, or extra bedding with ease, while the upper cabinet keeps smaller items neatly hidden. In an entryway, it commands attention as an impressive console, with the upper doors concealing bags, scarves, and seasonal accessories. It also shines in a home office as a filing and display cabinet, with the smaller drawers keeping correspondence, stationery, or keepsakes close at hand. A rare find for collectors of vintage Japanese furniture and a truly memorable housewarming gift for anyone who appreciates the artistry of Japan's craft heritage.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1912-1926 (Taisho)
• Material: Kiri (paulownia) -- primary wood; iron hardware on section joins; brass ring pulls and knobs on drawers
• Use: Isho tansu -- traditional Japanese chest for storing folded kimono and clothing accessories
• Modern Use: Bedroom dresser and clothing storage; entryway console with concealed cabinet; home office storage cabinet
• Features: Three stackable sections; upper double-door cabinet with fitted small-drawer interior insert; row of side-by-side smaller drawers below cabinet; multiple full-width graduated drawers in lower sections; brass ring pulls and round knobs throughout; decorative iron section-join hardware on sides; original lock hardware on cabinet doors; warm honey-toned kiri grain with natural patina
• Dimensions: 37"W x 18"D x 63 1/2"H
• Condition: Excellent

A commanding piece of Japanese antique furniture -- this three-section isho tansu brings the warmth, craft, and quiet elegance of Taisho Japan into any modern bedroom, entryway, or 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.