Keyaki Kogei けやき工芸 (Takayama Keyaki Kobo) Japanese Mini Tansu Chest – Hida Takayama This miniature tansu chest was produced by Keyaki Kogei (けやき工芸), also known as Takayama Keyaki Kobo, in Hida Takayama—an area internationally recognized for its traditional woodworking excellence. Crafted from natural keyaki (Japanese zelkova) wood, the piece displays beautifully pronounced grain patterns and a warm reddish tone enhanced by a glossy varnished finish. The vibrant surface highlights the natural beauty of the wood, a defining feature of Hida keyaki craftsmanship. The chest features three drawers with traditional metal handles in a folk-inspired (mingei) style. Black iron-style corner fittings reinforce the structure while evoking the aesthetic of classic merchant chests. The interior drawers are finished in natural light wood, offering practical usability and refined contrast. Small-scale tansu chests such as this were designed for storing accessories, stationery, or sewing tools, combining decorative presence with functional storage. The overall balance of proportion, hardware detailing, and wood grain makes this a charming example of late 20th-century Japanese craft production. ⸻ Size Height: 21 cm Width: 19 cm Depth: 15 cm ⸻ Weight 1500 g / 1.5 kg ⸻ Condition Very good condition. Light surface wear consistent with age and use; drawers open and close smoothly and the structure remains solid. ⸻ Artist Profile Keyaki Kogei けやき工芸 (Takayama Keyaki Kobo) Keyaki Kogei is a woodworking workshop based in Hida Takayama, Gifu Prefecture—one of Japan’s most respected regions for traditional carpentry and furniture making. The workshop specializes in small tansu chests and storage pieces crafted from natural keyaki (Japanese zelkova) wood. Their works are known for expressive wood grain, glossy lacquer-like finishes, and mingei-inspired hardware, blending traditional aesthetics with modern interior functionality.