Ancient Japanese tansu with four wooden drawers – Japan, circa 1920

Ancient Japanese tansu with four wooden drawers and iron fittings. It comes from Japan, from the Taishō period, around 1920. The iron side handles facilitated its transport. The tansu is the Japanese chest of drawers used for domestic purposes: it stored kimonos, bedding, and utensils. The chests from the Taishō era combine the simplicity of wood with functional fittings that reinforce the corners and serve as decoration. The four drawers have half-moon iron handles. The bottom drawer is divided into a wide drawer and a narrow one, secured with a cut-out plate lock. The corners of the body are reinforced with iron brackets, and on each side, an iron handle allows it to be lifted. The wood has a warm golden tone, with a light grain, showing gentle wear on the edges. It functions as a chest of drawers in a bedroom, as an entryway piece, or as a low buffet, bringing the warmth of wood to a space with simple lines. Details. Dimensions: Length 86 cm – Depth 42 cm – Height 86 cm. Style: Taishō period. Materials and techniques: Wood; fittings, handles, lock, and iron handles. Place of origin: Japan. Period: Taishō period (1912-1926) Date of manufacture: Around 1920. Condition / Observations: Retains its original fittings, handles, and lock. Wear consistent with age and use. This piece is part of the Amaru Antiques collection, Barcelona.