Antique Japanese Two Section Kimono Tansu Clothing Chest, 1912 - 1926 (Taisho) | SKU: 26M-A465

Japanese Isho Tansu Clothing Chest | Antique Dresser & Bedroom Storage, 1912-1926 (Taisho), SKU 26M-A465

A two-section kimono tansu in warm-toned kiri wood, dressed with hand-cast iron hardware and its original key -- a rare survivor of the Taisho golden age of Japanese antique furniture.

An isho tansu is a traditional Japanese clothing chest designed specifically to store folded kimono and other garments. Built in two stackable sections that separate for easy transport -- a hallmark of the tansu-maker's craft -- this handcrafted Japanese isho tansu dates to the Taisho period (1912-1926), an era when regional craftsmen were producing some of the finest cabinetry in Japan's furniture tradition. The carcass is constructed from kiri (paulownia), the wood most prized for isho tansu because its natural oils repel moisture and insects, keeping precious silk garments safe through humid Japanese summers. The closely parallel grain runs clean and straight across every drawer face, lending the chest a quiet, meditative beauty consistent with the wabi-sabi aesthetic. Black iron corner brackets reinforce the sides of both sections, a practical and decorative convention seen on quality tansu of this period. Each drawer is fitted with a cast-iron pull -- pierced with delicate floral openwork -- alongside a small round lock knob, and the uppermost drawer retains its original iron key on a fine chain, an unusually complete survival for vintage Japanese furniture of this age.

In a modern home this substantial isho tansu transitions effortlessly from storeroom heirloom to everyday furniture. Stood in a bedroom, its multiple deep drawers provide generous clothing and linen storage while the warm honey-toned kiri surface brings immediate Japandi style warmth to the space -- a beautiful alternative to a standard dresser or chest of drawers. In a living room or entryway it works equally well as a console or entryway furniture accent, the two-section format allowing each half to be used independently as a low sideboard or side table. The chest also makes a meaningful housewarming gift or gift for collectors of Japanese antique furniture, arriving with its original hardware and key intact -- a complete, investment-quality piece that few modern reproductions can match.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1912-1926 (Taisho)
• Material: Kiri (paulownia) wood; cast iron hardware
• Use: Isho tansu -- traditional two-section clothing and kimono storage chest
• Modern Use: Bedroom dresser and clothing storage; entryway console or sideboard; living room accent chest
• Features: Two stackable sections with iron corner bracket reinforcements; multiple full-width drawers throughout; each drawer fitted with a cast-iron floral openwork pull and round lock knob; uppermost drawer with original iron key on chain; clean straight-grain kiri wood throughout; warm honey-amber patina developed over a century of use
• Dimensions: 37"W x 17"D x 43 1/4"H
• Condition: Excellent

A century-old isho tansu in fine original condition -- handcrafted Japanese antique furniture that brings authentic Taisho warmth and timeless storage elegance to any modern home.

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.