This is an vintage Japanese personal storage chest called Ko Tansu from early Showa (1920's-1940's). It was used to store letters, documents, books and other items for daily use. Made of Paulownia wood (Kirinoki).
Contemporary uses for this piece include placement on a desk for additional office storage, using this as an elegant side table or placing it next to a bed for the perfect nightstand.
27 1/4"W x 14"D x 28 1/4"H