Antique Japanese Chaba-Tansu Tea Chest

An antique chaba-tansu (tea storage cabinet) dating from Taisho Era (1912-1926) to Early Showa period (1912-). Traditionally used to house loose-leaf tea vessels, utensils, and personal ephemera, this versatile chest is configured with a wide upper drop-in panel that lifts away to reveal a bi-level interior shelf. Positioned below the main cabinet are three asymmetrical drawers of varying scale, including a narrow vertical drawer fitted with a prominent, circular iron lock plate. The aged reddish-brown lacquer casing highlights a sweeping, rhythmic timber grain across the front facade, imbuing the piece with a sophisticated, historic character.

Materials

The cabinet is constructed primarily from choice Japanese timbers, featuring a highly expressive cedar or chestnut veneer face paired with lightweight, stable softwood internal components. The exterior features a rich, hand-rubbed translucent brown lacquer finish that celebrates the prominent underlying grain pattern. The chest is outfitted with its original hand-forged iron hardware, including a small drop pull handle, a traditional warabite drawer pull, and decorative round iron lock plates.

Dimensions

Condition and Antique Character

This genuine antique remains entirely unrestored, displaying a beautiful, storied patina built up through decades of domestic use. The lacquer finish exhibits expected surface scuffs, fine historic scratches, and general softening at the edges, alongside minor timber separation marks common in seasoned softwoods. The top panel has a slight, age-related bowing that creates a narrow gap along the upper right seam when viewed closely, though this does not affect structural integrity. All internal drawers pull cleanly on their original tracks, the removable front panel slides securely into place, and the main cabinet frame remains stable and robust.

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