Small antique Japanese desk cabinet with three drawers – Meiji / Taishō period (c. 1890-1926)

Small antique Japanese desk chest of drawers with three drawers made from Japanese chestnut (Castanea crenata) and Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica), Japan, late Meiji period and early Taishō period, circa 1890-1926. This type of small drawer unit was commonly used on desks in homes, shops, and offices in Japan at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century. Its compact design allowed for the storage of documents, writing tools, and small everyday items. The main structure is made from Japanese chestnut, a robust and durable wood highly valued in traditional cabinetmaking. The drawers are made from Japanese cedar, a lighter wood that facilitates sliding and ensures good stability. The front features a characteristic layout with one long upper drawer and two lower drawers of different sizes. The simple metal handles and the small central lock plate reflect the functional and understated aesthetic of Japanese furniture transitioning between Meiji and Taishō. The surface retains a deep patina developed over time. Signs of use, variations in hue, and the natural wear of the wood testify to the utilitarian history of the piece. Today, these small Japanese chests of drawers are highly valued as desk organisers or decorative furniture. Their compact size and aesthetic simplicity allow them to easily integrate into contemporary interiors. Details. Dimensions: Length: 49 cm Depth: 26 cm Height: 22 cm. Style: Meiji. Materials and techniques: Japanese chestnut (Castanea crenata), Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) Place of origin: Japan. Period: Late Meiji, early Taishō period. Date of manufacture: Circa 1890-1926. This piece is part of the collection of Amaru Antiques, Barcelona.