Exceptional, large 7-step kaidan'dansu 階段箪笥 (cabinet of drawers that also function as stairs) in 2 sections, and with a secret. Fully restored, cleaned and waxed. The drawer faces and steps are made of solid precious Keyaki wood (Zelkova - "Japanese oak"), and indigenous sugi (cedar) wood varnished in a deep dark brown hue with a great aged patina. Alongside, a distinct railing from a lengthy branch with a organic touch. The upper part is configured with a drawer and hinged door with a ‘hidden’ slide lock. One of the horizontal bars can slide to lock the door. The lower part with five wide stacked drawers and three drawers of different size underneath the steps. There is also a large hidden section, namely at the back of the cabinet there is a large hinged door. The smooth running drawers are fitted with elegant iron ‘hirute’-shaped bail handles with matching escutcheons. The stacked drawers are also equipped with large decorative lock plates shaped like stylized chrysanthemums 菊 (kiku) set with raised knobs shaped like kiku as well. Because of the depth and volume of the cabinet, it has a lot of hidden space for easy storage. Step chests made during the old Meiji and Edo period were made for specific houses. In other words these rare pieces and they are never identical. The step-cabinet is in a very good restored condition. Please look at the photos for a clear condition reference. Period: Japan – 19th century (Late Edo period/Early Meiji period). Dimensions: - Total: Height: 214.9 cm, Width 151.2 cm, Depth 81.3 cm. - Upper section: Height: 92.4 cm, Width 61.5 cm - Lower section: Height: 122.5 cm, Width 151.2 cm - Bamboo railing: Length 169.8 cm, Diameter 4.6 cm When shipped we will add a certificate of authenticity. #masterpieces