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Japanese Antique Black Drawer Chest 1860s-1900s / Tansu Sideboard Wabi Sabi

About the Item

This is an old Japanese black drawer cabinet. Quietly standing in space, it brings a deep sense of balance and quiet tension without ever appearing overly assertive. It is believed to date from the Meiji period (1860s–1900s). While originally created for practical daily use, it has been carefully preserved over many years and remains in very good condition today. The worn edges and small marks across the surface are traces of time itself, quietly giving this piece its own distinct character. The cabinet is made of cedar wood, offering a structure that is both lightweight and sturdy. Beneath the black finish, the natural wood grain subtly emerges, and the softened texture created through years of use gives the surface a warm and gentle quality. The handles are made of iron, adding a restrained contrast to the overall appearance. The design is simple and entirely free of excess. Rather than relying on decoration, its beauty is defined by form and material alone, embodying a true sense of simplicity. The clean linear proportions convey the refined balance unique to traditional Japanese furniture, allowing it to blend naturally into a variety of interiors while maintaining a quiet yet unmistakable presence. Throughout the piece, one can sense that it has been carefully repaired and cherished over generations. These traces of maintenance are never excessive; instead, they enrich the cabinet with the depth and atmosphere that only the accumulation of time can create. More than a simple storage piece, it possesses the presence of an object that subtly defines and grounds a space. All drawers open and close smoothly, and the cabinet remains fully functional for practical use today. The entire piece, including the interior, has been thoroughly cleaned and maintained in a hygienic condition, allowing it to be used with confidence. This cabinet beautifully embodies the Japanese spirit of wabi-sabi, making it ideal for spaces that seek a quiet, understated beauty rather than extravagance. With continued use, its character will deepen even further, becoming a lasting companion over time. It will be carefully packed and shipped safely from Japan. Weight: 16.5 kg
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 24.61 in (62.5 cm)Width: 30.71 in (78 cm)Depth: 14.57 in (37 cm)
  • Style:
    Meiji (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Cedar,Iron,Woodwork
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1860s-1900s
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Chōsei District Nagara, JP
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU10403250033902