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Japanese Antique Wabi Sabi Small Tansu 1860s-1900s / Cabinet Nightstand Storage

$800
£607.34
€700.17
CA$1,131.71
A$1,218.39
CHF 652.47
MX$14,681.16
NOK 8,232.38
SEK 7,533.96
DKK 5,231.95

About the Item

This is a small antique Japanese tansu chest. It was crafted in the Meiji period (1860s–1900s) and made from Japan’s traditional sugi (cedar) wood. Sugi, known for its lightness and warmth, develops an exceptionally rich character as it ages, and over the decades the wood has matured into a deep, refined tone. The design is remarkably simple and free of excess. Its stripped-down, unembellished form embodies a pure sense of simplicity. With no decorative elements, the piece relies solely on its materials and structure, giving it a clean and honest presence. This quiet strength allows it to harmonize beautifully with contemporary interiors, evoking the origins of modern minimalism. Its appearance conveys the care it has received over many years. Subtle wear, softened corners, variations in color, and the patina that only time can create all contribute to a unique character that cannot be replicated artificially. These features represent not mere aging, but a singular texture shaped by time—an expression of the quiet beauty found in traditional Japanese furniture. The sliding doors open and close smoothly, allowing the piece to function perfectly as a practical item. The internal shelf structure is well preserved, making it suitable for storing small items or using it as a side table, nightstand, or multi-purpose accent piece in a modern living space. The deep brown-black tones characteristic of aged sugi and its softly raised grain carry a rich shadow and warmth that only long years can produce. Within these subtle nuances lies the Japanese spirit of “wabi-sabi”—an appreciation for natural imperfection and the quiet beauty of things shaped by time. Even the wear and small irregularities become part of its aesthetic presence. The entire piece has been carefully cleaned, so you can use it with confidence. Simply placing it in a room will add a gentle yet undeniable presence, bringing a calm rhythm to your everyday surroundings. Weight: 7.5 kg __________________________ Our Philosophy Objects always tell the truth. All I can do is just to face with them sincerely and give them deep affection as much as I can. There is no boundary of nationalities and of eras in beauty. But I think now is the time we choose 'Japanese style' and it will be the best way to remind us of what we are losing today and to question us about an essence of beauty again. I hope that you can touch the memories which the objects here have, feel and think of something invisible but exists undoubtedly.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 15.36 in (39 cm)Width: 22.64 in (57.5 cm)Depth: 13 in (33 cm)
  • Style:
    Meiji (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Cedar,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: LU10403247582792

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