Antique Japanese chest with drawers and ironwork – portable tansu – Meiji–Taishō period (c. 1880–1920)

This ancient Japanese box with drawers, of the portable tansu type, is made of solid wood with numerous wrought iron elements, produced in Japan during the Meiji–Taishō period. This type of Japanese storage box was used to keep documents and valuable items. Its compact format allows for efficient organisation. The construction features traditional joinery reinforced with fittings, hinges, and metal plates. The iron elements provide strength and visual character. The surface shows a deep patina, with visible wear and marks, as well as oxidation of the metal, in line with the wabi-sabi aesthetic. In a contemporary interior, this piece functions as a sculptural decorative object or storage furniture, ideal for japandi or minimalist spaces. Details. Dimensions: Width: 19 cm Depth: 27 cm Height: 20 cm. Style: Traditional Japanese Tansu. Materials and techniques: Solid wood; wrought ironwork, traditional joinery, structural reinforcements. Place of origin: Japan. Era: Meiji – Taishō Date of manufacture: Circa 1880–1920. Condition / Observations: Good; wear on the wood, oxidation of the metal, visible marks. This piece has been carefully selected as part of the Amaru Antiques collection, Barcelona.