Antique Japanese Two Section Kimono Tansu Clothing Chest, 1927 - 1945 (Early Showa) | SKU: 26M-A072

Japanese Isho Tansu Clothing Chest | Antique Wardrobe & Bedroom Armoire, 1927-1945 (Early Showa), SKU 26M-A072

A stately two-section kimono chest in warm-toned hardwood, dressed with ornate pierced metal fittings and original silk tasseled keys.

An isho tansu is a traditional Japanese clothing chest designed specifically to store folded kimono and formal garments. Constructed in two stackable sections, this handcrafted Japanese antique furniture piece dates to the Early Showa period -- an era when regional cabinetmakers were refining the isho tansu form with clean panel joinery and high-quality hardware. The upper section features a pair of broad double doors that open to reveal multiple interior shelves, ideal for the careful stacking of silk robes. The lower section houses a series of full-width pull-out drawers, each fitted with a cast metal bail pull and a decorative round boss embossed with a floral mon (family crest) motif. The wood throughout displays a straight, fine-grained texture consistent with keyaki (zelkova) or a comparable Japanese hardwood, now aged to a warm honey tone. Crowning the piece are two ornately pierced metal door lock plates engraved with scrolling arabesque foliage -- a hallmark of quality tansu smithing -- complete with their original keys hung with braided silk tassels. Black lacquered corner hardware reinforces the case at each section, adding both structural integrity and visual contrast.

This commanding isho tansu translates beautifully into a modern bedroom as a statement wardrobe or linen armoire, offering generous, well-organized storage in a Japandi style aesthetic. The upper cabinet section works equally well as a media console or display cabinet in a living room, while the lower drawer section -- usable independently -- makes a handsome dresser or entryway console. Its warm natural wood tones complement wabi-sabi and minimalist decor schemes effortlessly. Whether used to store clothing, folded textiles, or collected objects, this piece brings depth, craftsmanship, and quiet authority to any interior. A distinguished gift for collectors of Japanese antique furniture or anyone who appreciates heirloom-quality storage.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927-1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Hardwood, likely keyaki (zelkova) or comparable Japanese hardwood; cast metal hardware; black lacquered iron corner fittings; pierced metal lock plates
• Use: Isho tansu -- traditional two-section clothing chest for storing folded kimono and garments
• Modern Use: Bedroom wardrobe or linen armoire; living room display cabinet and media console; entryway furniture with drawer storage
• Features: Two-section stacking construction; upper double-door cabinet with multiple interior shelves and ornate pierced arabesque lock plates with original keys and silk tassels; lower section with multiple full-width pull-out drawers, each with cast metal bail pulls and floral mon boss knobs; black lacquered iron corner and carrying hardware throughout
• Dimensions: 48"W x 18 1/2"D x 68"H
• Condition: Excellent

A rare and complete example of Early Showa Japanese antique furniture -- where masterful joinery, ornate metalwork, and enduring natural wood come together in one timeless isho tansu.

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.