Antique Japanese Isho Tansu (Clothing Chest), Taisho period, 1912-1926 | SKU: 25D-A044

Antique Japanese Isho Tansu (Clothing Chest), Taisho period, 1912-1926 | SKU: 25D-A044

A stately two-section isho tansu with lockable cabinet doors, multiple pull-out drawers, and exquisitely engraved metal hardware -- a rare survivor of Taisho-era Japanese antique furniture craftsmanship.

An isho tansu is a traditional Japanese clothing chest designed to store kimono, obi, and folded garments in an organized, dust-free environment. This handcrafted example dates to the Taisho period (1912-1926), a golden age when Japanese furniture makers began blending classical joinery traditions with a growing appreciation for clean, architectural form. The cabinet is constructed from sugi (Japanese cedar), its fine straight grain catching warm amber tones across the broad flat surfaces. The upper section features a pair of paneled double doors secured by a working lock with its original key; inside, a fixed shelf provides two generous open compartments ideal for folded storage. The lower section offers multiple wide pull-out drawers, each fitted with a pair of arc-shaped metal drawer pulls and a central lock escutcheon. Corner iron fittings in blackened metal reinforce all four outer corners of the upper cabinet, lending structural integrity and a bold graphic contrast to the honey-toned wood. The crowning detail is the ornate cast metal door hardware -- each pull plate is pierced and engraved with scrolling leaf motifs reminiscent of Taisho Art Deco influence, a hallmark of this transitional era in Japanese decorative arts.

In a modern home, this handsome isho tansu brings both serious storage and serious style. Stand it in a bedroom as a statement wardrobe alternative -- the upper cabinet handles linens or folded knitwear while the drawers organize clothing with ease. In a living room or entryway, it works beautifully as a media console or entryway furniture piece, its warm wood tones and sculptural hardware serving as a focal point in Japandi style or wabi-sabi aesthetic interiors. The locking upper compartment makes it equally useful as secure home office storage for documents or valuables. A truly unique gift for collectors of Japanese antique furniture or anyone who appreciates heirloom-quality craftsmanship.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1912-1926 (Taisho)
• Material: Sugi (Japanese cedar); blackened iron corner fittings; cast metal door pull plates with engraved leaf motifs; metal arc drawer pulls; working lock with original key
• Use: Traditional isho tansu -- a Japanese clothing chest for storing kimono, folded garments, and household textiles
• Modern Use: Bedroom wardrobe and clothing storage; living room or entryway console with secure locking cabinet; home office storage for documents and valuables
• Features: Two-section construction; lockable double-door upper cabinet with internal shelf and two open compartments; multiple wide pull-out drawers each with paired arc-shaped metal pulls and central lock escutcheons; blackened iron corner reinforcements on upper section; ornate pierced and engraved cast metal door hardware with floral leaf motifs; original working key included
• Dimensions: 36 1/4"W x 16 1/2"D x 47 3/4"H
• Condition: Excellent

A commanding piece of Japanese antique furniture -- this Taisho-era isho tansu brings over a century of quiet craftsmanship and enduring beauty 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.