Vintage Japanese Two Section Kimono Tansu Clothing Chest, 1946 - 1965 (Mid Showa) | SKU: 26M-H002

Japanese Isho Tansu Clothing Chest | Antique Dresser & Bedroom Storage, 1946-1965 (Mid Showa), SKU 26M-H002

A commanding two-section kimono tansu in deep lacquered sugi, adorned with ornate cast iron hardware -- a rare find in Japanese antique furniture.

An isho tansu is a traditional Japanese clothing chest designed specifically to store folded kimono and formal garments, with wide, shallow drawers that keep delicate silk fabrics crease-free. This handcrafted Japanese tansu chest dates to the Mid Showa period and is constructed from richly grained sugi (Japanese cedar), finished in a deep red-lacquer tone that has mellowed beautifully with age. The two-section stacking format -- a hallmark of classic tansu design -- allowed the chest to be separated for easier transport during household moves, a practical feature highly prized in postwar Japan. Each drawer is fitted with a decorative cast iron handle, and the front face of every section is centered with a large, round iron medallion lock plate bearing finely relief-cast motifs of phoenix, pine, and floral patterns -- exceptional metalwork that elevates this piece well beyond everyday storage furniture.

In a modern home, this vintage Japanese tansu chest works beautifully as a statement bedroom dresser, offering generous drawer storage for clothing, accessories, or linens in a Japandi style interior. Its tall, upright silhouette and rich lacquered grain make it equally striking as a living room accent piece or entryway furniture, displayed against a neutral wall where its deep crimson tones can take center stage. The unfinished paulownia-lined drawer interiors -- visible in the open-drawer image -- are characteristic of fine Japanese craftsmanship and will keep stored items naturally protected. A truly meaningful housewarming gift or collector's centerpiece for anyone passionate about wabi-sabi aesthetic and the art of Japanese antique furniture.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1946-1965 (Mid Showa)
• Material: Sugi (Japanese cedar) with red lacquer finish; kiri (paulownia)-lined drawer interiors; cast iron hardware
• Use: Traditional isho tansu for storing folded kimono and garments; two-section stacking chest
• Modern Use: Bedroom dresser and clothing storage; living room accent or entryway furniture; statement piece in Japandi or wabi-sabi styled interiors
• Features: Two stacking sections; multiple wide, shallow drawers; ornate cast iron ring pulls on each drawer; large round iron medallion lock plates with relief-cast phoenix and floral motifs; decorative corner iron fittings; side carrying handles; kiri-lined drawer interiors
• Dimensions: 35"W x 17"D x 47 3/4"H
• Condition: Good vintage condition consistent with age; minor surface marks and light patina to lacquer; hardware intact and fully functional; drawer interiors clean

A striking piece of Japanese antique furniture -- this isho tansu brings the quiet elegance of Mid Showa craftsmanship into any modern bedroom or living space.

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.