Antique Japanese Chabudai Folding Table, 1927 - 1945 (Early Showa) | SKU: 26M-590

Japanese Kyotaku Folding Desk | Antique Floor Writing Desk & Low Table, 1927-1945 (Early Showa), SKU 26M-590

A rare Early Showa-era Japanese writing desk -- compact, cleverly engineered, and rich with handcrafted detail.

A kyotaku is a traditional Japanese low writing desk designed for floor-level use, combining a wide flat work surface with integrated drawer storage -- a format that flourished in Japanese homes and studies during the early twentieth century. This exceptional example, dating to the 1927-1945 Early Showa period, is built from a boldly grained hardwood, likely nara (Japanese oak), finished in a deep amber and ebony lacquer that has mellowed beautifully with age. The drawer unit separates cleanly from the open table frame, allowing the two pieces to nest together for compact storage -- a design hallmark of quality Japanese antique furniture from this era. The side panel of the drawer cabinet features a graceful cloud-shaped cutout carry handle, a refined decorative touch that reflects the craftsmanship of pre-war Japanese woodworking. Each drawer is fitted with a cast metal bail pull, and the interiors are lined with pale kiri (paulownia) wood -- practical, fragrant, and moisture-resistant. An original manufacturer's paper label, numbered NO. 38326, is affixed inside one drawer, offering a rare provenance detail for collectors of vintage Japanese craft.

In a modern home, this handcrafted Japanese writing desk adapts beautifully to contemporary living. Use it as a floor desk or meditation corner in a bedroom or home office, embracing the wabi-sabi aesthetic of purposeful, grounded living. The compact drawer cabinet alone functions as a striking nightstand or bedside organizer, while the open table frame works independently as a low display shelf or Japandi-style living room accent. The recessed top compartment -- revealed by lifting the hinged lid panel -- adds a hidden storage element that makes this piece as practical as it is beautiful. A truly unique gift for collectors, Japanophiles, or anyone drawn to mid-century Japanese antique furniture with genuine character and story.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927-1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Boldly grained hardwood, possibly nara (Japanese oak), with dark lacquered frame; kiri (paulownia) drawer interiors; cast metal bail pulls
• Use: Traditional Japanese floor-level writing desk with integrated drawer storage
• Modern Use: Floor desk or meditation corner; bedroom nightstand and organizer; Japandi-style living room low table or display shelf
• Features: Two-piece design -- open table frame and separate drawer cabinet that nest together for storage; decorative cloud-shaped cutout carry handle on cabinet side panel; recessed top compartment with lift-out hinged lid panel; multiple drawers fitted with cast metal bail pulls; kiri-lined drawer interiors; original manufacturer's paper label inside drawer (NO. 38326)
• Dimensions: 9 1/2"W x 12"D x 13 1/2"H
• Condition: Excellent

A rare and functional piece of Japanese antique furniture -- bringing the quiet craftsmanship of Early Showa Japan 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.