Vintage Japanese Ko Tansu in Meiji Style, Early Showa (1927-1945) | SKU: 26M-H005

Vintage Japanese Ko Tansu in Meiji Style, Early Showa (1927-1945) | SKU: 26M-H005

A compact Japanese tansu with richly figured wood and striking black iron hardware in a bold Meiji-style composition.

A tansu is a traditional Japanese freestanding storage chest, and this compact ko tansu presents that form in a dramatic, iron-clad style. The front is arranged with a pair of central hinged doors secured by an elaborate lock plate, with drawers above, below, and to the right, each fitted with rectangular iron pulls. The wood shows a vivid, swirling grain beneath a warm reddish finish, while the blackened hardware creates a strong graphic pattern across the entire facade. Decorative corner mounts, long strap hinges, and pierced ornamental fittings give the piece the layered presence associated with Meiji-style tansu design.

In a modern home, this vintage tansu works beautifully as a small statement chest in an entryway, living room, or study. Its compact footprint and varied compartments make it practical for storing small household items, documents, table linens, or personal accessories, while its bold front adds sculptural character to Japandi, wabi-sabi, and collected interiors alike. A distinctive piece for those who appreciate Japanese craftsmanship and the visual drama of hand-fitted ironwork.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927-1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Wood with reddish finish and extensive black iron hardware
• Use: Ko tansu -- compact traditional storage chest
• Modern Use: Entryway accent chest; living room or study storage; compact cabinet for linens, accessories, or small household items
• Features: Pair of central hinged doors with large decorative lock plate; multiple drawers with rectangular iron pulls; ornate strap hinges and corner mounts; heavily iron-clad facade; flat top surface
• Dimensions: 28 3/4"W x 16 1/2"D x 30"H
• Condition: Excellent

A richly detailed vintage Japanese tansu that balances compact scale, practical storage, and commanding Meiji-style presence.

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.