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Japanese Antique Large Black Tansu 1860s-1900s / Sideboard Cabinet Wabi Sabi

$4,500
£3,433.39
€3,908.64
CA$6,324.80
A$6,952.50
CHF 3,650.03
MX$82,670.17
NOK 46,874.65
SEK 42,697.74
DKK 29,203.83

About the Item

This is an old large black tansu chest made in Japan. Crafted during the Meiji period (1860s–1900s), it is made from cedar wood, a material known for its lightness and gentle, warm texture. Its presence is remarkably serene, and its unadorned, disciplined design creates a strong and compelling sense of quiet beauty. The front features sliding doors with an elegant lattice design, echoing the refined rhythm of traditional Japanese architecture. Minimalist yet subtly warm, the form embodies the essence of Japanese simplicity. Inside, the natural wood surface remains untouched and unpretentious, creating a beautiful contrast with the darker exterior. Each time the doors are opened, a calm, spacious silence reveals itself. Signs of careful use and thoughtful repairs accumulated over generations can be seen throughout. Small scratches and variations in color have become part of the piece’s unique character—an excellent example of how the passage of time can transform wear into beauty. The sliding doors move smoothly, offering reliable functionality. Their ease of operation reminds us of the exceptional craftsmanship of Meiji-period artisans. The piece has been fully cleaned, allowing you to use it with confidence from the day it arrives. This tansu is deeply infused with the spirit of wabi-sabi—the appreciation of timeworn beauty, quiet presence, and natural imperfection. The mellowed texture of the wood, the subdued strength of its black finish, and the harmony of form and function all contribute to a silhouette that blends effortlessly into modern spaces while adding a sense of depth and dignity. It serves wonderfully as a console table or as a large storage cabinet, offering versatile use to suit a variety of lifestyles. Weight: approx. 50 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: 35.04 in (89 cm)Width: 70.67 in (179.5 cm)Depth: 18.71 in (47.5 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: LU10403247872842

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