About the Item

This small chest of drawers was crafted in the Meiji Era (1868–1912). The case is made of sugi (Japanese cedar), while the drawer fronts are keyaki (Japanese zelkova), featuring a finely grained, densely figured surface. The pattern appears almost like gentle waves or subtle wrinkles, creating a layered and expressive visual texture. It evokes the character of wood that has grown over a long period of time, developing depth and complexity through natural conditions. Keyaki is a slow-growing hardwood, and grain of this density and character is rarely seen today, adding to the appeal of the piece. The edges are finished with traditional Japanese urushi lacquer. Though softened by age, the darkened outline remains, giving the form a quiet sense of structure and contrast against the wood surface. This is not an artist-made or decorative object, but a practical piece used in daily life. Signs of wear, including abrasions and small marks, are present and reflect its history of use, contributing to its honest and understated character. Small handles are attached to the sides, suggesting that the piece was designed to be moved and used close at hand within the home. Compact in scale, it functions well as a personal storage chest, and can also be used in contemporary settings as a small organizer or display piece. The drawers slide smoothly, and the structure remains sound. A quietly compelling piece that highlights the natural beauty of the material and the traces of time. Condition Notes: - Structure is sound and stable with no structural issues - Surface shows age-related wear including scratches, abrasions, dents, and marks consistent with age and use - Fading and wear to the finish are present in places - Minor surface irregularities and natural wood movement are present - Drawers open and close smoothly Cleaned and disinfected with a non-toxic solution. As an authentic Late Meiji–period piece (1868–1912), this chest shows natural signs of age inherent to Japanese antique furniture. Characteristics such as surface wear, fading to the finish, dents, and natural wood movement 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: Top drawer: W: 19.5" × D: 10.9" × H: 2.6" (49.5 × 27.8 × 6.5 cm) Middle drawer: W: 19.5" × D: 10.9" × H: 5.0" (49.5 × 27.8 × 12.6 cm) Bottom drawer: W: 19.5" × D: 10.9" × H: 5.5" (49.5 × 27.8 × 14.0 cm) Weight: 20.7 lbs (9.4 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: 17.41 in (44.2 cm)Width: 21.46 in (54.5 cm)Depth: 12.09 in (30.7 cm)
Style:
Meiji (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Cedar,Iron,Wood,Woodwork
Place of Origin:
Japan
Period:
Early 20th Century
Date of Manufacture:
Circa 1900
Condition:
Refinished. Wear consistent with age and use. As an authentic Late Meiji–period piece, this chest shows natural age-appropriate wear. It remains structurally sound, and all drawers operate smoothly for everyday use.
Seller Location:
Hitachiomiya-shi, JP
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU7430249422762

Materials

Chestnut, Cedar

Japanese Antique Small Chest of Drawers, Keyaki Wood, Meiji Era “1868–1912”

About the Item

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