Vintage Japanese Small Hikidashi Drawer, 1966 - 1989 (Late Showa) | SKU: 26M-093

Japanese Ko-Tansu Small Chest | Vintage Nightstand & Desk Organizer, 1966-1989 (Late Showa), SKU 26M-093

A compact hikidashi drawer chest in boldly grained dark hardwood -- Late Showa craftsmanship at its most refined.

A ko-tansu is a small-format Japanese storage chest, traditionally used beside a sleeping area or writing desk to keep personal belongings neatly organized. This handsome example, dating to the Late Showa period (1966-1989), features multiple stacked hikidashi (pull-out drawers) finished in a richly striped dark hardwood veneer -- possibly kaki (persimmon) -- with deep reddish-brown tones and bold linear grain running evenly across every drawer face. The case sides are finished in a contrasting near-black lacquered wood, giving the piece a quietly dramatic two-tone presence. Each drawer is fitted with a cast brass bar pull, and the bottom drawer retains an original keyhole escutcheon, a charming period detail. The drawer interiors are constructed from a lighter secondary wood, showing clean joinery consistent with skilled mid-century Japanese antique furniture craftsmanship.

In today's home, this compact ko-tansu adapts beautifully to a range of modern uses. Its upright, desk-side proportions make it an ideal home office storage unit -- perfect for corralling stationery, files, or art supplies. Placed beside a bed, it serves as a distinctive bedroom nightstand with generous drawer storage for books, accessories, and personal items. Its dark, boldly grained facade pairs naturally with Japandi style and wabi-sabi aesthetic interiors, complementing both minimalist decor and mid-century modern spaces. A truly unique gift for collectors or Japanophiles looking for a functional piece of vintage Japanese craft with genuine character.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Boldly grained dark hardwood veneer, possibly kaki (persimmon); lighter secondary wood drawer interiors; cast brass bar pulls
• Use: Personal storage chest -- originally used beside a sleeping area or writing desk to organize clothing, documents, and small valuables
• Modern Use: Bedroom nightstand with drawer storage; home office desk organizer; living room accent cabinet in a Japandi-style interior
• Features: Multiple stacked hikidashi (pull-out drawers); boldly striped dark hardwood drawer fronts with contrasting near-black lacquered case sides; cast brass bar pulls on each drawer; original keyhole escutcheon on bottom drawer; clean secondary-wood drawer interiors with solid joinery
• Dimensions: 9"W x 11 1/2"D x 12 1/2"H
• Condition: Excellent

A striking piece of Japanese antique furniture -- this ko-tansu brings the quiet confidence of Late Showa craftsmanship and handcrafted Japanese storage design into 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.