Dating back to the early 19th century, this stunning Kanto-region Isho Dansu (Japanese clothing chest) is a masterclass in traditional craftsmanship. It is prominently crafted from Kiri (paulownia wood), a material highly prized for clothing storage due to its ability to regulate moisture, deter insects, and expand to seal out water during floods. The chest features wide, shallow drawers designed specifically to store folded kimonos without creasing. Its configuration - wide main drawers balanced by a vertical column of side drawers and a lower-right hinged safe box - is deeply characteristic of the Meiji era. In contrast to the flashy, deeply embossed ironwork of Sendai chests, this Kanto piece showcases a sleeker, more utilitarian aesthetic. It features classic warabite drawer pulls, reinforced iron corner brackets, and a central locking plate, while heavy side handles allowed a pole to be inserted for rapid evacuation during emergencies. Following a major restoration, the chest remains unwaxed; its raw, sanded finish highlights the natural grain and invites a beautiful future patina. This unique piece would compliment any modern home particularly used as a chic bedroom dresser or a living room console.
For a more durable finish, we can apply a clear protective wax to this piece for an additional fee. Please contact us for more information about this service.
The dimensions are as follows: H: 92cm - D: 43cm - L: 119cm
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