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19th C. Edo Money Chest Iron-Riveted " Zenibako"/ Trunk Table Pedestals Wabisabi

$2,900
£2,188.36
€2,546.71
CA$4,094.02
A$4,108.33
CHF 2,396.03
MX$49,952.34
NOK 27,532.77
SEK 28,316.05
DKK 19,037.98

About the Item

A strikingly imposing 19th-century late Edo-period merchant’s security money chest (Zenibako), originating from the maritime merchant culture of the Niigata and Sado Island region along the historic Kitamaebune trade route. Mastercrafted from dense, thick slabs of solid Japanese zelkova (Keyaki), this chest is heavily fortified with elaborate hand-forged black iron hardware, centered by a monumental circular iron medallion studded with rows of domed round rivets and stylized floral washers. The top surface features a distinctive recessed chute designed for rapidly dropping daily mercantile coinage into its fortified interior. Heavy, intact Zenibako featuring this degree of architectural ironwork and thick zelkova timber are among the most sought-after collector pieces of Edo-period utilitarian craftsmanship. Bridging historic Mingei folk art, Wabi-Sabi authenticity, and a rugged Brutalist aesthetic, this piece transcends historical storage to serve as a versatile functional statement—ideal as a distinctive side table, low console, or low plinth for contemporary sculpture. In person, the piece conveys immense physical density and gravitas. The hand-planed zelkova timber shows a rich, dark espresso and warm amber antique tone, while the hand-forged iron plates retain honest hammered textures and soft graphite luster. The construction remains rock-solid and stable. Age-commensurate fine wood fissures, historic rubbing, and genuine metal oxidation only enhance its rugged sculptural integrity. During the late Edo period, wealthy merchant houses, currency exchangers, and shipping agents along the Sea of Japan commissioned specialized security chests engineered to resist both burglary and coastal fires. These chests were designed with heavy hardwoods and thick iron bands so they could not be easily lifted or breached, standing as symbols of prosperity and financial trust. Multifunctional Display: Can be positioned horizontally as a dramatic accent/coffee table or set vertically as an architectural pedestal/display column for displaying ceramics or small sculptures. Care Instructions: Maintain simply with a dry, clean microfiber cloth or natural bristle brush. Avoid excessive moisture or placement directly above underfloor heating vents. Creator / Style: Japanese Merchant Furniture (Choba-dansu / Zenibako), Edo Folk Craft (Mingei) Period: Late Edo Period (19th Century) Place of Origin: Niigata / Sado Island Region, Japan (Historic Kitamaebune Trade Route) Materials: Solid Japanese Zelkova (Keyaki Hardwood), Hand-Forged Iron Hardware, Studded Iron Rivets, Natural Lacquer Patina Condition: Excellent Antique Condition (Solid and structurally stable; authentic historic surface wear, honest shrinkage fissures in the dense hardwood, and exceptional darkened iron patina with aged rivets) Dimensions: Height: 14.96 in (38 cm) Width: 15.75 in (40 cm) Depth / Length: 26.38 in (67 cm) Estimated Weight : approx. 29.101 lbs (13.2kg)
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 14.96 in (38 cm)Width: 15.75 in (40.01 cm)Depth: 26.38 in (67.01 cm)
  • Style:
    Edo (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Hardwood,Iron,Natural Fiber,Hand-Crafted,Metalwork,Woodwork
  • Place of Origin:
    Japan
  • Period:
    Early 19th Century
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1800~1850
  • Condition:
    Excellent Antique Condition (Solid and structurally stable; authentic historic surface wear, honest shrinkage fissures in the dense hardwood, and exceptional darkened iron patina with aged rivets).
  • Seller Location:
    足利市, JP
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: SA-0101stDibs: LU10977251424602

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