DescriptionAntique Japanese stacking two section tansu, expertly crafted from traditional Kiri (paulownia) wood, a material highly valued in Japan for its light weight, dimensional stability, and natural resistance to moisture and insects. Kiri was historically chosen for clothing and personal storage chests because of its protective qualities and refined, silky grain, making it one of the most culturally significant woods in Japanese furniture making.This tansu exemplifies classical Japanese joinery, where carefully engineered interlocking wood joints provide strength and longevity without modern construction methods. The cabinet’s clean lines and balanced proportions reflect the practical yet sophisticated design philosophy that defines Japanese merchant furniture.The front and sides are accented by extensive hand-forged iron hardware, including large circular lock plates, corner brackets, hinges, and traditional warabite-style drawer pulls. Each iron element was individually shaped by artisans, creating subtle irregularities and surface textures that distinguish genuine antique work from later reproductions. The dark iron fittings contrast beautifully against the warm, naturally aged Kiri wood, giving the piece a bold architectural presence.Designed for both functionality and durability, the tansu features multiple drawers of varying scale, offering versatile storage while maintaining visual rhythm across the front. The original patina, surface wear, and oxidation of the ironwork contribute to the cabinet’s authenticity and historic character.Age: Meiji period 1868 – 1912Dimensions: 37″ wide x 40 3/4″ high x 16 1/3″ deep
