Taisho Boxes

This is an old Japanese wooden box, crafted in the Meiji to Taishō period (1860s–1920s). Despite its long history, it retains a quiet and compelling presence. The box is made from traditional sugi (Japanese cedar), whose soft grain and gentle texture reflect the depth and warmth of its age. The form is strikingly minimal—its design is completely free of unnecessary elements. Although it is simply a box, the composition of clean lines and planes gives it a subtle tension and understated beauty. It carries the precision and warmth of handcraft, something that cannot be replicated by industrial production. One particularly captivating feature is the visible trace of careful repairs made over many years. A knot hole on the side was thoughtfully patched with black washi paper, a practical repair that, over time, has become an expressive and almost artistic detail. In this small gesture, one can sense the quiet presence of Japanese aesthetic sensibilities. The top and sides bear gentle wear and abrasion accumulated over decades. Rather than damage, these marks serve as a texture created by time, giving the piece its unique depth and character. The box possesses a humble yet powerful presence—a true embodiment of wabi-sabi, the beauty of imperfection and age. The interior remains sturdy, offering ample storage capacity. It has been thoroughly cleaned, ensuring it can be used safely and comfortably. Its low, elongated proportions make it highly versatile: ideal as a low coffee table, a book table, a side table, or a display platform. Simply placing it in a modern interior instantly adds a sense of calm and visual depth. A simple yet richly expressive antique wooden box...

108 years-old wooden small tansu (chest of drawers) with 4 drawers. Product of Taisho 5 (1916), written on the bottom together with maker's address & name. Finished with traditional Urushi lacquer. The original laquer remains well & gives a good wabi sabi touch. Each handles are partly covered with Boro (hand-woven, indigo dyed cotton cloth) - this is another wabi sabi element of this tansu. Smooth opening & closing operation for all drawers. drawer inner w 5.79 in / d 12.6 in / h 1.38 in, 1.69 in, 2.28 in, 2.64 in (from the top) actual item weight 5.95 lb (2.7 kg) Dear customer - feel free to inquire me for the shipping fee quote. The shipping fee showed in the page is automatically calculated by the system, I'm able to offer reasonable quote via Fedex. *** We're eco-friendly, organic-oriented vintage wood furniture...

This antique lacquerware box with a lid retains the elegance of the Taisho period. It is characterized by the deep luster of the lacquer and the delicately painted floral pattern, m...

A Japanese Taisho period tiered food box from the early 20th century with red lacquer and calligraphy. Created in Japan during the early years of the 20th century, this red lacquered...

A Japanese Taisho period Hokai box from the early 20th century, with red lacquer, ornate brass accents and original rope. This vibrant Japanese Taisho period...

This wooden box is a Japanese tabako-bon, or 'tobacco tray,' used to store tobacco and smoking accessories. Believed to have evolved from the traditional ...

This wooden box is a Japanese tabako-bon, or 'tobacco tray,' used to store tobacco and smoking accessories. Believed to have evolved from the traditional ...