Cassettiera - Legno - Giappone

This is a charming and authentic Japanese Ko-Tansu (small chest of drawers)(Kusuridansu 薬箪笥 (medicine chest)) dating to the Taisho period (circa 1912–1926) to Early Showa period.
The chest features a total of 14 drawers arranged in a distinctive layout:
The upper three tiers consist of four drawers each
The bottom tier contains two wider drawers
Each drawer is marked with hand-written kanji numerals. From the top left, the numbering reads:
1, 2, 3, 5
6, 7, 8, 10
11, 12, 13, 15
16, 17

The sequential numbering suggests the chest was likely used for systematic storage, possibly in a merchant’s shop, apothecary, or workshop. Such numbered drawers were practical tools in traditional Japanese commercial environments.

Its compact proportions make it ideal for storing jewelry, small antiques, documents, tea utensils, or collectibles.

The chest shows signs of age consistent with its Taisho-era to Early Showa origin, including surface dirt, minor stains, and natural patina. These characteristics enhance its historical character and authenticity.

There are no major damages. The structure remains solid and stable.
All drawers open and close smoothly.
Please note that there is no key included.

Aesthetic & Collectible Value
The warm wood grain, traditional iron handles, and handwritten kanji numerals give this piece a strong sense of Japanese wabi-sabi beauty and early 20th-century craftsmanship.
Taisho-period furniture is increasingly appreciated for its blend of traditional Edo-era functionality and the subtle modern influences of the early 20th century.
This piece would make a refined decorative object as well as a practical storage solution in both traditional and contemporary interiors.

Height 35.2 cm
Width 34.0 cm
Depth 17.0 cm
Weight: 4210 g

Condition:
This is an old item, so the condition is appropriate for its age. There may be scratches, scuffs, dirt, rust, discoloration, deterioration, mold, and dullness. Please take a look at the many photos posted.

Attenzione:
The items listed for sale are all used collectibles.
Please consider them to have signs of aging, such as stains, scratches, scuffs, tears, discoloration, fading, fraying, and changes in thread color.
We will post as many photos as possible to make it easy to understand.
As these are old items, we appreciate your understanding before making a purchase.

Shipping:
The lot will be carefully packaged and shipped from Japan.
We will use either DHL or FedEx for a safe and secure transportation. It usually takes about 2-3 weeks for delivery, and the package will be shipped with a tracking number.
Import duties, taxes, VAT, and any other charges are not included in the item price and shipping cost. Please check your country's import duties before bidding.

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