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Japanese Antique Massive Tansu Chest 1860s-1900s / Cabinet Cupboard Wabi Sabi

$8,000List Price

About the Item

This is a large, old black tansu chest made in Japan, dating to the Meiji period (1860s–1900s). Crafted from Japanese cedar, it is substantial in scale yet maintains a calm, restrained presence. Once placed in a space, it seems to quietly carry with it the atmosphere of its era, asserting a dignified sense of time and history. The design is entirely free of unnecessary ornamentation, defined instead by a simple, honest, and well-balanced form. This purity of composition beautifully embodies the aesthetic of “simplicity.” Most striking is the lattice-designed sliding doors on the front. While emphasizing clean, straight lines, they also convey a subtle warmth and softness characteristic of Japanese design. Depending on the angle of view and the way light falls, delicate variations of black and the shadows of the lattice gently shift across the surface. Over many decades, this tansu has been carefully repaired and maintained, and that history is clearly visible in its surface. The depth of its black color is something that cannot be artificially reproduced. It possesses a quiet richness and subtle shading unique to wood that has aged naturally over a long period of time. The black tone—shaped by soot, handling, and the accumulation of years—is not merely a finish, but a texture created by time itself. It also offers excellent storage capacity. The upper section is well suited for organizing smaller items, while the lower section can comfortably accommodate taller objects. All sliding doors open and close smoothly, making this a fully functional piece of furniture. The interior has been thoroughly cleaned, so it can be used immediately and with confidence upon arrival. While commanding enough to become the focal point of a room, this tansu also conveys a profound sense of quietness. The solid yet gentle presence of an old black tansu harmonizes surprisingly well with contemporary interiors, and even when placed simply against a wall, it tightens and elevates the overall atmosphere of the space like an art piece. A one-of-a-kind piece that transforms the passage of time into beauty—truly an embodiment of the Japanese spirit of wabi-sabi. Weight: approximately 70 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: 65.95 in (167.5 cm)Width: 68.31 in (173.5 cm)Depth: 24.61 in (62.5 cm)
Style:
Meiji (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Cedar,Woodwork
Place of Origin:
Japan
Period:
Early 20th Century
Date of Manufacture:
1860s-1900s
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
Chōsei District Nagara, JP
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU10403248040532

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