‘Yonezawa (米沢) Isho Tansu (衣装箪笥)’ – Japanese Antique Chest

Japanese ‘Isho Tansu (衣装箪笥)’ are traditional chests used for storing clothing, textiles, and personal belongings. “Isho” translates to “clothing” or “apparel,” indicating the primary purpose of these chests.

These chests typically feature a variety of drawers, compartments, and sliding panels, allowing for efficient organization of clothing and accessories. The design of Isho Tansu often reflects the needs of the users, with specialised compartments for different types of garments, such as kimono (着物), obi (帯, sashes), and accessories like fans and combs.

’Yonezawa’ is a castle town in the north of Japan’s main island, ‘Honshu.’ Renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship, the history of ‘Yonezawa Tansu (Chest),’ dates back to the 16^th century. It is deeply intertwined with the town’s heritage.

Crafted from lacquered wood such as zelkova, chestnut, paulownia, and cedar, the Yonezawa Tansu boasts a distinctive charm and durability. Its unique feature is the large round metal lock-fittings, which are hand-hammered and adorned with intricate motifs of butterflies, cherry blossoms, and jewels etc. It reflects the beauty of nature and traditional Japanese aesthetics.

This Antique Costume Chest exemplifies the sophistication and uniqueness of Yonezawa Tansu. The large round metal lock fittings, embellished with cherry blossom motifs, adding a touch of elegance to the piece, further enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

Restored to its former glory, this chest comes complete with a stand for convenient modern use. Fully functional and accompanied by a set of keys, it is ready to grace any contemporary living space with its timeless beauty and historical significance.

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Dimensions: Hight 76cm, Width 118cm, Depth 45cm

Period: Meiji (1868-1912) / Taisho (1912-1926)

Material: Zelkova serrata/Cryptomeria japonica