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Japanese Antique Drawer 1860s-1920s / Sideboard Wabi Sabi

About the Item

This is a very old drawer storage chest made in Japan. It dates back to the Meiji era (1860s–1920s) and is crafted from Japanese cedar wood. The metal fittings are made of iron. In the Meiji era—when the winds of modernization began to sweep through Japan—there existed tools that quietly supported everyday life. This Seoi Tansu, or portable chest, is one such relic that bears the memory of that time. Its surface, once lacquered in deep black, now bears the marks of a life well-traveled scuffed edges, faded labels, and worn wood quietly tell the story of countless journeys on the backs of merchants and craftsmen. The iron handles, smoothed by years of use, carry with them the weight of unspoken stories. Though rugged in appearance, there is a quiet warmth to its presence a reflection of the Japanese artisan spirit, which valued both function and soul. Each drawer may once have held medicinal herbs, fabric, tools, or cherished family heirlooms. We may never know what was stored inside, yet the lingering trace of those memories still gently remains. Its minimal structure and the deep shadows cast by age lend it a quiet yet powerful gravitas bringing to contemporary interiors a sense of calm that comes not from perfection, but from the beauty of timeworn character. There are visible signs of age, including insect marks and wear, but they only enhance the charm of this exceptional piece. It is a work of remarkable presence and quiet beauty. This is not merely a storage chest. It is a vessel of memory a traveler through time. Since ancient times, the Japanese have crafted tools and furnishings from familiar natural materials as a means of living in harmony with their environment. These objects were handed down through generations, forming the foundation of a rich and thoughtful way of life. Items that have been used for many years develop a distinctive patina and character, reflecting not only their use but also the spirit of their time and the lives of their owners. In today’s world, where mass production and disposability are the norm, we believe that restoring and continuing to use the objects around us opens the door to a new way of thinking. With this philosophy at our core, we carefully select and present antiques from across Japan each one beautiful, powerful, and full of individuality.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 34.65 in (88 cm)Width: 34.06 in (86.5 cm)Depth: 17.33 in (44 cm)
  • Style:
    Meiji (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Cedar,Iron,Metalwork
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1860s-1920s
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses.
  • Seller Location:
    Sammu-shi, JP
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU5487245430052

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