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 kiri (paulownia), 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: Kiri (paulownia); 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.