Antique Japanese tansu – Meiji/Taishō period (c.1868-1926) #100

Antique Japanese Tansu – Meiji / Taishō Period (c.1868-1926) Dimensions: Length: 91 cm Depth: 43 cm Height: 115 cm. Style: Meiji. Materials and Techniques: Japanese Chestnut (Castanea crenata), Japanese Cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) Place of Origin: Japan. Era: Late Meiji period, early Taishō period. Date of Manufacture: Circa 1890-1926. Condition: Good. Wear corresponds to age and use. This Japanese tansu from the Meiji period is distinguished by the quality of its materials and a construction designed for demanding domestic use. Its vertical format and generous proportions give it a pronounced architectural presence, designed to offer ample storage capacity while maintaining visual balance. The piece combines Japanese chestnut (Castanea crenata) and Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica). The denser and more durable chestnut is used for structural elements and facades, providing strength and expressive grain. Japanese cedar appears in secondary and interior parts, offering lightness, stability, and good resistance to moisture. This combination is characteristic of quality tansu from the Meiji period. The facade is organised around wide drawers and compartments, reinforced by original wrought iron fittings: circular closing plates, corner reinforcements, and understated handles. These elements ensure a structural and protective function while providing a strong graphic identity. The wood exhibits a deep and warm patina, marked by signs of use, abrasions, and softened edges, reflecting a natural and consistent aging process. UNIQUE PIECE.