Vintage Japanese Ko tansu, Late Showa (1966-1989) | SKU: 26J-0493-1

Vintage Japanese Ko tansu, Late Showa (1966-1989) | SKU: 26J-0493-1

A boldly lacquered two-drawer accessory chest with carved floral motif and honeycomb-patterned urushi-style finish

A Ko tansu is a small personal chest used in Japan to keep everyday valuables -- accessories, correspondence, small keepsakes -- close at hand. This compact example from the Late Showa era showcases a striking decorative lacquer technique in which a deep black outer coat is applied over a rich red base, then carved or pressed into an all-over honeycomb cell pattern. The warm crimson ground glows through wherever the surface is incised, creating a dramatic two-tone depth across every face of the chest. At the center of the drawer fronts, a large carved floral bloom -- its petals and foliage rendered in confident relief -- spans both drawers as a single unified composition, a classic motif in Japanese vintage furniture that evokes abundance and refinement. Round lacquered knob pulls on each drawer complete the handcrafted Japanese aesthetic.

This compact vintage Japanese chest is as versatile as it is beautiful in a modern home. Sized to sit on a dresser or vanity, it makes an exceptional jewelry box -- the red fabric-lined drawer interiors cushion rings, earrings, and delicate pieces with care. On a home office desk it serves as a stylish desktop organizer for stationery, stamps, or small supplies. It would also make a striking living room accent or bedroom decor piece displayed on a shelf alongside ceramics or books, fitting naturally into a Japandi style or wabi-sabi aesthetic. A unique housewarming gift or gift for Japanophiles who appreciate vintage Japanese craft with genuine decorative presence.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Wood substrate with black-over-red lacquer finish, honeycomb-carved surface decoration; unfinished light wood drawer boxes; red fabric-lined drawer interiors
• Use: Personal accessory storage chest -- originally used to hold small valuables such as jewelry, accessories, or stationery
• Modern Use: Jewelry box or vanity organizer; desktop storage for small stationery items; decorative accent for bedroom, living room, or home office shelf
• Features: All-over honeycomb-cell carved lacquer pattern in black over red; large carved floral motif spanning both drawer fronts as a single design; round lacquered knob pulls; red fabric-lined interior; unfinished wood drawer boxes; plinth base
• Dimensions: 9"W x 7 1/2"D x 8"H
• Condition: Excellent

A richly decorative piece of vintage Japanese craft that brings the warmth of traditional lacquerwork and handcrafted detail into 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 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.