Mid 20C Vintage Japanese 3-Tier Tansu Chest

A vintage Japanese 3-tier tansu chest dating from mid 20th century. Constructed in independent stacking sections, the chest features upper sliding doors, smaller accessory drawers, and a series of wide drawers below for the storage of clothing and textiles. The modular construction allowed the chest to be separated into sections for easier transport.

Materials

Constructed predominantly from Japanese kiri (paulownia), with traditional wooden joinery throughout. The chest retains substantial hand-forged iron hardware, including corner plates, side fittings, carrying hardware, and warabite-style drawer handles. The natural, pale grain of the paulownia remains visible throughout the drawer interiors and other exposed areas.

APPROX. Dimensions

HEIGHT: 155.4cm / 61.18''
WIDTH: 46.6cm / 18.34''
DEPTH: 41.8cm / 16.45''

Condition & Antique Character

This is a well-preserved example with a naturally aged surface and strong original character. The timber shows gentle rubbing, small scratches, chips at edges, dents, variations in colour, and other marks consistent with age and use. The iron fittings have developed a deep, naturally darkened patina.

The drawers and sliding doors retain their original wooden construction and show signs of repeated use, including wear to the runners and edges. Minor timber losses, small gaps, old repairs, and other age-related marks may be present.

The three sections remain structurally distinct, retaining the practical stacking construction characteristic of traditional kasane-tansu. The chest has not been heavily restored and retains the appearance and character of an original piece of early 20th-century Japanese household furniture.

As shown in the last couple of photos, there is some sectional damage - small timber losses. Also, the bottom front base has been replaced.

Please examine the photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.