Vintage Japanese Ko Tansu Small Chest, 1946 - 1965 (Mid Showa) | SKU: 26M-G011

Japanese Ko-Tansu Small Chest | Vintage Storage Cabinet & Bedroom Nightstand, 1946-1965 (Mid Showa), SKU 26M-G011

A striking burl-veneered ko-tansu combining double-door cabinet storage with pull-out drawers -- a rare and collectible piece of Japanese antique furniture.

A ko-tansu is a compact Japanese storage chest, smaller in scale than a full-sized tansu and traditionally used to organize personal belongings, documents, or household essentials within the home. This Mid Showa example stands apart for its extraordinary exterior -- every surface of the doors and drawer fronts is clad in a swirling, flame-figured burl veneer, its amber and deep mahogany tones shifting dramatically in the light. The solid wood carcass beneath, revealed in a warm natural finish inside the cabinet, contrasts beautifully with the richly figured facade, and the construction throughout reflects the careful handcraft typical of mid-century Japanese furniture makers. The two hinged doors open to a shelved interior with generous stacked compartments, while several pull-out drawers below -- each fitted with a curved metal bar pull -- provide additional organized storage. The overall silhouette is compact yet commanding, a hallmark of quality Japanese vintage craft.

In a modern home this ko-tansu is as versatile as it is visually arresting. Its upright proportions and shelved interior make it a natural fit as a bedroom nightstand or a small entryway cabinet -- use the upper compartment for folded linens, accessories, or electronics, and the drawers below for everyday essentials. It works equally well as a home office storage unit or a living room accent piece to display books and objects behind closed doors. The burl veneer gives it an undeniable presence in Japandi style, wabi-sabi, or even mid-century modern interiors, and its warm honey tones complement both light and dark palettes. A unique housewarming gift or standout collector's find for anyone who appreciates handcrafted Japanese antique furniture.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1946-1965 (Mid Showa)
• Material: Softwood carcass (likely sugi/cedar or similar) with boldly figured burl veneer exterior; metal bar pulls
• Use: Compact household storage chest -- clothing, documents, and personal items
• Modern Use: Bedroom nightstand or entryway cabinet; home office storage; living room accent with concealed shelving
• Features: Double hinged doors opening to a shelved interior; multiple pull-out drawers below with curved metal bar pulls; spectacular swirling burl veneer covering all exterior faces; paneled door construction visible on interior face; clean plinth base
• Dimensions: 23"W x 15"D x 32 1/2"H
• Condition: Good vintage condition consistent with age; burl veneer intact with natural patina; interior clean and sturdy

A bold and beautifully figured piece of Japanese antique furniture -- this ko-tansu brings warmth, history, and artisan craftsmanship to any modern interior.

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.