Small Japanese cabinet with sliding doors, Kabuki decoration, made of paulownia wood, early Showa period, circa 1926–1970.

Small Japanese cabinet with decorated sliding doors made from paulownia wood (Paulownia spp.), originating from Japan and dated to the early Showa period, circa 1926–1970. This type of compact furniture was traditionally used in Japanese homes to store documents, utensils, or textiles while occupying minimal space. The front features two illustrated sliding doors depicting a scene inspired by Japanese Kabuki theatre, showing an actor with dramatic makeup and ceremonial costume. This iconography draws from the tradition of ukiyo-e prints, which have profoundly influenced Japanese decorative arts since the Edo period. The interior reveals two horizontal shelves for storage, while the lower part includes two drawers. The combination of sliding doors and drawers constitutes a typical functional solution of small Japanese furniture intended for everyday use. Paulownia wood was particularly valued for its lightness, stability, and natural resistance to moisture. The surface now exhibits a warm patina, with an elegant contrast between the wood grain and the dark red lacquered frame surrounding the illustrated scene. Today, this type of small Japanese furniture is highly sought after as a desk, small sideboard, tea storage unit, or decorative piece in interiors inspired by wabi-sabi, Japandi style, or Japanese minimalism. Details. Dimensions: 66 cm width × 23 cm depth × 31 cm height. Style: Showa. Materials and techniques: paulownia wood (Paulownia spp.) Place of origin: Japan. Period: Early Showa period. Date of manufacture: circa 1926–1970. Condition: Good. Wear consistent with age and use, with natural patina. This piece is part of the Amaru Antiques collection, Barcelona.