Antique Japanese Iko Style Folding Towel Rack, Early Showa, 1927-1945 | SKU: 26M-962-1

Antique Japanese Iko Style Folding Towel Rack, Early Showa, 1927-1945 | SKU: 26M-962-1

A compact two-panel wooden towel rack with gently upturned rails, folding construction, and a warm aged patina suited to quiet everyday use.

This antique Japanese towel rack is made in an iko style format, with two narrow open panels joined by metal hinges so the stand can open for use and fold for storage. The design is spare and practical: each side has a slender top rail for hanging cloth, an open frame beneath, and a low base section that gives the piece stability while keeping the overall form light and airy. Its restrained lines and small footprint make it an appealing example of functional domestic design from the early Showa period.

In a modern home, this handcrafted antique works beautifully in a bath area, guest room, or dressing space for hand towels, tenugui, lightweight cloths, or other textiles. The folding form also makes it easy to display on a shelf, counter, or tabletop as a decorative accent with practical purpose. Warm wood grain, softly rounded rails, and visible hand-finished character give it a calm presence that suits wabi-sabi, Japandi, and minimalist interiors alike.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Early Showa, 1927-1945
• Material: Wood; metal hinges
• Use: Freestanding folding towel rack in iko style
• Modern Use: Hand towel or tenugui display; guest bath accent; dressing table or shelf display for lightweight textiles
• Features: Two hinged panels; open-frame construction; gently upturned top rails; low stabilizing base rails with inset lower boards; folds flat for storage; warm brown aged surface
• Dimensions: 14 1/2"W x 24 1/2"H
• Condition: Good antique condition with age-appropriate wear

A thoughtful antique for the home -- simple, useful, and quietly expressive of Japanese everyday craftsmanship.

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.