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Sliding Doors, Taisho era
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Japanese Antique Two-Sided Work Table with Drawers
Sliding Doors, Taisho era
$4,500
£3,399.58
€3,898.59
CA$6,278.89
A$6,833.36
CHF 3,622.36
MX$82,210.57
NOK 45,943.15
SEK 42,034.76
DKK 29,125.39
About the Item
This substantial Japanese work table dates to the Taisho period (1912–1926) and is designed to be used from both sides, a configuration that is rarely encountered.
At the center of the piece is sliding-door storage, with three drawers arranged on both the front and back sides. This double-sided layout reflects a working environment where access from either direction was essential, emphasizing efficiency and practicality in its original use.
The table is constructed primarily from Japanese cedar, with a solid Japanese horse chestnut tabletop finished in black urushi lacquer. The lower structure is finished in a reddish-brown lacquer, with areas of wear and abrasion that lend the surface a quietly decadent character. These layered surfaces convey a clear sense of long-term use and aging.
Subtle vertical striping is carved into the side panels of the main body, introducing a restrained decorative element within an otherwise functional structure. On both sides of the drawers, projecting structural supports extend outward beneath the tabletop. These supports are crafted from zelkova wood, a dense and durable hardwood traditionally used in Japan for load-bearing components. They play a structural role while also giving the table a strong architectural presence and visual depth.
This piece was selected for its distinctive presence. The weathered coloration shaped by time and use, together with the balance between robust construction and considered design, is particularly compelling. Among the many pieces we have handled, this table stands out for the strength of its visual character and overall composition.
It is well suited for use as a worktable, counter, or central island within a space.
The sliding doors operate smoothly. Inside, a single shelf board is present; it is not fixed and can be removed if desired. The interior shows less aging than the exterior and has been carefully cleaned. The drawers have also been thoroughly cleaned inside and slide smoothly.
Some structural repairs have been carried out where necessary. The legs showed signs of wear and were reinforced from the inside using new wood to restore strength without altering the external appearance. Parts of the sliding-door frame have also been repaired using traditional wood patching techniques. These repairs were undertaken with care, preserving both functionality and the table’s original character.
Condition Notes:
- Carefully cleaned prior to listing
- Sliding doors and drawers operate smoothly
- Rails show no significant wear; recessed areas are present where natural knots have fallen away over time
- These recessed areas do not affect operation and have been left as found
- Some structural repairs have been carried out where appropriate
- Legs were reinforced from the inside using new wood to restore strength without altering the external appearance
- Parts of the sliding-door frame have been repaired using traditional wood patching techniques
Cleaned gently with water only.
As an authentic Taisho-era piece, this table shows natural signs of age inherent to Japanese antique furniture. Characteristics such as surface wear, abrasion, wood movement, and areas of lacquer loss are reflections of its history and authenticity, not defects. Please review all photos carefully—condition details are visible in the images—and feel free to contact us with any questions before purchasing.
Interior dimensions (approx.)
Open storage interior (left section):
Opening width: 46.9" (119.0 cm)
Shelf width: 48.8" (124.0 cm)
Upper section:
D: 21.1" (53.7 cm) / H: 11.2" (28.5 cm)
Lower section:
D: 21.5" (54.5 cm) / H: 12.6" (32.0 cm)
Drawer interior (each):
W: 14.0" (35.5 cm) / D: 15.0" (38.0 cm) / H: 3.9" (9.8 cm)
Weight: 125.0 lbs (56.7 kg)
Shipping Information:
We ship from Japan. I will provide my own shipping quote. Please ask.
Import duties, taxes, and customs fees are the responsibility of the buyer.
Approach to Selection and Restoration:
Each piece is individually selected through our own eye, then restored to reveal its most compelling state. Movement, stability, and surface are considered as one—shaped through practice to be lived with naturally, honoring the wood’s natural patina while avoiding environmentally harsh chemical strippers or forceful abrasion.
- Dimensions:Height: 34.18 in (86.8 cm)Width: 53.75 in (136.5 cm)Depth: 34.97 in (88.8 cm)
- Style:Taisho (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:Japan
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:Circa 1910
- Condition:Repaired: Structural repairs were carried out in Japan prior to listing. The legs were reinforced internally using new wood to restore strength without altering the exterior. Parts of the sliding-door frame were also repaired using traditional wood patching. Wear consistent with age and use. Structurally sound and stable. Age-related wear such as surface abrasion and areas of lacquer loss are present, consistent with age and use. Sliding doors and drawers operate smoothly, and the table remains fully functional.
- Seller Location:Hitachiomiya-shi, JP
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU7430248099562
About the Seller
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- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: Hitachiomiya, Japan
- Return Policy
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