19th century Japanese trade furniture - tansu

This "tansu" (chest of drawers in Japanese) dates from the 1850s-80s. Meiji period. It is made of paulownia wood, nicknamed "imperial tree" in Japan. The corners and edges are reinforced with metal - the drawers are decorated with fittings - of compact size it has 12 drawers. Condition: due to its age this piece of furniture shows multiple wear, numerous scratches, dents from use. The fittings are oxidized - one fitting is missing from one drawer (see photo) - dent at the upper edge (see photo). Dark / slightly mauve / reddish stain. Very robust, stable - functional. The style combines power and oriental influence. The craftsman sought the balance between wood and fittings. In summary this piece of furniture has the "wabi sabi" aspect dear to the Japanese: it is a spiritual and aesthetic concept, derived from Zen Buddhist principles. "Wabi" means simplicity, melancholy, and nature; "sabi" is the alteration of time, the taste of aged things, the patina of objects. Don't hesitate to ask questions about its condition.