Japanese chest

This very beautiful chest is a Zeni-bako, a money and document chest, originating from the former province of Echizen (now Fukui Prefecture). • The fittings: The hammered ironwork with floral patterns is the signature of Echizen artisans. They used the forging techniques of the famous swords from the region to create these protective plates. • The wood: It appears to be Keyaki (Japanese Zelkova), a very hard and precious wood, preferred for merchant chests as it was resistant to fire and theft attempts. 2. The history of the Asuwa District (足羽郡). Inside the lid, which opens in two halves, it is noted that it comes from the Asuwa district, which was a very active administrative area surrounding the city of Fukui. • In 1887 (Meiji 20), the date inscribed on the chest, this district was undergoing significant economic transition. • Records indicate that carpentry workshops were concentrated in specific neighbourhoods. The name "Uemon" (右衛門) that we deciphered corresponds to a lineage of artisans or a commercial sign (Yago) from this area. It is a chest of great beauty and true historical richness.