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Japanese Antique Apothecary Chest, Taisho Era (1912–1926), Wabi Sabi
$1,500
£1,147.24
€1,312.90
CA$2,134.91
A$2,311.49
CHF 1,228.91
MX$27,878.13
NOK 15,454.25
SEK 14,407.77
DKK 9,805.69
About the Item
This Japanese apothecary chest (kusuri tansu) was crafted during the Taisho Period (1912–1926) in hinoki cypress, a wood prized for its fine grain, natural resistance to moisture, and subtle, calming fragrance.
The design is rooted in practicality: multiple uniform drawers were originally used by apothecaries and herbalists to organize medicinal ingredients. The repeated rhythm of drawer fronts creates a composed, geometric beauty, while the warm patina and honest wear reflect decades of thoughtful use.
Hinoki’s durability ensures the structure remains sound and stable. The chest works beautifully in modern interiors—as an entry console, storage for jewelry or collections, a display surface for ceramics and objects, or simply as a sculptural accent that brings texture and history into a space.
Condition Notes:
- Structure is stable with no wobble
- Back panel shows age-related splitting, typical of vintage wooden furniture (does not affect stability)
- Surface displays natural patina with areas of finish wear, color variation, minor scratches, dents, and small edge chips—authentic signs of age that enhance the piece's wabi-sabi character
- All drawers open and close smoothly
Cleaned and disinfected with a non-toxic solution.
As an authentic Taisho-era piece, this chest exhibits natural signs of age and use inherent to Japanese antique furniture. Characteristics such as finish wear, wood movement, surface marks, and structural aging are reflections of authenticity and history, not defects. Please review all photos carefully—condition details are visible in images—and feel free to contact us with any questions before purchasing.
Drawer interior dimensions (approximate):
W: 7.0–7.2 inches (18–18.5 cm)
D: 10.4–10.6 inches (26.5–27 cm)
H: 4.6 inches (11.7 cm)
Weight: 39.7 lbs (18 kg)
Shipping Information:
We ship from Japan. I will provide my own shipping quote. Please ask.
- Dimensions:Height: 23.94 in (60.8 cm)Width: 34.53 in (87.7 cm)Depth: 11.7 in (29.7 cm)
- Style:Taisho (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:Circa 1920
- Condition:Refinished. Wear consistent with age and use. Cleaned and disinfected. Structure is sound and stable with no wobble. Back panel shows age-related splitting (does not affect stability). Surface has natural patina with finish wear, scratches, dents, and chips consistent with age.
- Seller Location:Hitachiomiya-shi, JP
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU7430247696962
About the Seller
5.0
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Established in 2019
1stDibs seller since 2022
81 sales on 1stDibs
Typical response time: <1 hour
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: Hitachiomiya, Japan
- Return Policy
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