Vintage Signed Japanese Exotic Wood Kakesuzuri Style Funa Dansu or Ship's Safe

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About the Item

This signed Vintage Japanese exotic wood Kakesuzuri style funa dansu (ship's safe) is an fine example of the skilled craftsmanship of Sendai tansu makers. The smooth lacquer finish in reddish brown highlights the grain of this exotic wood, and the chased metal fittings are embossed with vines and a floral motif. The safe comes with a lock and key that boasts a very sturdy and smooth gliding lock mechanism. It contains three drawers made of aged exotic wood with pulls in a darker stain. The drawers are silky to the touch and fit snugly in place while gliding smoothly along the rails. This tansu is assembled with exquisite joinery using no nails or screws, as is the tradition. There are some oxidized spots on the metal in several places but this does not detract from this tansu's beauty. I was told the maker of this chest is "Adachi Koge" from Sendai City, based on the signature. I was not able to decipher the papyrus note written in Japanese. I would be grateful if a speaker of the dialect of this region could tell me what it says. Sendai chests have been artfully crafted since the Sengoku period (1467-1568). During the Meiji period (1868-1912) and into the mid Taisho period (1912-1926), as Japanese art and culture was being introduced in the West, production of these lovely chests increased. The Sendai tansu were made primarily with Japanese chestnut, cedar, and zelkova wood (Kogei Japan, n.d). This piece was likely purchased in the 1920's in New York at the same time as a Meiji period silk tapestry that can be found in my storefront.

Dimensions:
Height: 6.5 in (16.51 cm)Width: 6.7 in (17.02 cm)Depth: 5.9 in (14.99 cm)
Style:
Taisho (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Hardwood,Lacquer,Metal,Wood,Embossed,Hammered,Hand-Crafted,Joinery,Lacquered,Metalwork,Polished,Stained,Woodwork
Place of Origin:
Japan
Period:
Early 20th Century
Date of Manufacture:
Unknown
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
Nova Scotia, CA
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU7091232175972

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