Antique Japanese Isho Tansu, Taisho period, 1912-1926 | SKU: 26M-A419

Antique Japanese Isho Tansu, Taisho period, 1912-1926 | SKU: 26M-A419

A rare Taisho-era isho tansu -- tall double-door cabinet over a graduated drawer base -- crowned with lacquered sliding panels adorned in mother-of-pearl bamboo inlay.

An isho tansu is a traditional Japanese clothing chest designed to store folded kimono and obi in a tall, organized cabinet format. This exceptional example, dating to the Taisho period (1912-1926), combines the full height of a standing wardrobe with the generous drawer storage typical of the finest handcrafted Japanese antique furniture. The body is constructed from richly straight-grained hardwood -- consistent in appearance with kiri (paulownia) -- presenting a warm honey tone and clean, tight grain throughout. The upper section features a pair of double doors fitted with scallop-form brass hinges and a working lock with its original key, opening to reveal an interior of adjustable shelves and pull-out trays ideal for folded garments. Above the doors, a framed register of burled wood trim frames two lacquered sliding panels decorated with mother-of-pearl bamboo motifs -- a hallmark of Taisho-era decorative taste that blends traditional craft with artistic refinement.

In a modern home, this antique Japanese isho tansu brings rare presence and exceptional storage to nearly any room. Use it as a statement bedroom wardrobe or linen cabinet, letting the lacquered bamboo panels serve as living art above a refined Japandi-style interior. The lower section of graduated drawers -- each fitted with a cast metal ring pull -- offers deep, practical storage for clothing, textiles, or media accessories in a living room or home office setting. With its commanding height and layered craftsmanship, it also functions beautifully as an entryway cabinet or dining room sideboard. A truly distinctive gift for collectors of Japanese antique furniture or anyone drawn to the wabi-sabi aesthetic of Taisho craftsmanship.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1912-1926 (Taisho)
• Material: Hardwood, kiri (paulownia); burled wood accent trim; lacquered sliding panels with mother-of-pearl bamboo inlay; cast metal hardware
• Use: Kimono and clothing storage (isho tansu) -- upper double-door cabinet with interior shelves and pull-out trays; lower section with multiple graduated drawers
• Modern Use: Bedroom wardrobe or linen cabinet; living room media and textile storage; entryway console or dining room sideboard
• Features: Lacquered sliding top panels with mother-of-pearl bamboo inlay; burled wood frame accent; double doors with working lock and original key; scallop-form brass hinges; interior adjustable shelves and pull-out trays; multiple graduated drawers with cast metal ring pulls; solid plinth base
• Dimensions: 36 3/4"W x 17 1/4"D x 62 3/4"H
• Condition: Excellent

A commanding piece of Japanese antique furniture -- where Taisho artistry, mother-of-pearl lacquerwork, and generations of thoughtful craftsmanship converge in a single extraordinary chest.

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.