Antique Japanese Funa Tansu Ship Chest with Iron Hardware and Interior Drawers, Meiji, 1868-1911

Antique Japanese Funa Tansu Ship Chest with Iron Hardware and Interior Drawers, Meiji, 1868-1911

A compact Japanese ship chest with bold hand-forged iron fittings, a hinged front door, and a fitted drawer interior designed for secure storage at sea.

This antique Japanese funa tansu is a small ship chest made in a sturdy rectangular form and fitted with extensive iron hardware for strength and security. The dark-stained wood body is reinforced with iron corner straps, hinge plates, and a substantial lock assembly on the front door, while an iron ring handle is mounted on the top for carrying. When opened, the front door reveals a fitted interior of multiple drawers in graduated sizes, including a pair of lower drawers side by side. The practical, enclosed design and compact proportions reflect the functional character associated with Japanese shipboard chests used to safeguard valuables and personal effects.

Today this piece makes a distinctive accent in a modern interior. It works beautifully on a desk, shelf, or chest as a sculptural storage piece for jewelry, stationery, keepsakes, or small collectibles. The weathered wood grain, dark patina, and hand-worked iron hardware give it a strong wabi-sabi presence whether displayed closed to emphasize its hardware or open to showcase the fitted drawer arrangement within.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Meiji, approximately 1868-1911
• Material: Wood with hand-forged iron hardware
• Use: Funa tansu (ship chest) for secure storage of valuables and personal effects
• Modern Use: Jewelry and keepsake storage; desktop organizer; shelf or console accent
• Features: Rectangular chest form; single front hinged door; top iron ring handle; iron lock plate, hinges, straps, and corner reinforcements; fitted interior with multiple drawers of varying sizes including two lower drawers
• Dimensions: 12 1/2"W x 17"D x 14"H
• Condition: Age-related wear, surface scratches, and patina consistent with use and age; interior and exterior show expected antique wear.

A handsome and compact example of Japanese antique furniture -- this Meiji-period funa tansu pairs practical design with the enduring appeal of dark aged wood and hand-forged ironwork.

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.