Japanese Antique ‘Ishobon (衣装盆)’ – Clothing Trays

A set of two Japanese antique ‘Ishoubon (衣装盆)’ wooden clothing trays, made entirely of paulownia wood. These trays, dating back to the early Showa period (1926-1989), were traditionally used for organising and folding Japanese clothing, such as kimonos. Today, they can also be recommended for organising various small household items.

An Ishoubon tray is a shallow container specifically designed for storing kimonos in a paulownia tansu (chest of drawers). Various types of Ishoubon exist, including square, round, turtle-shaped, and front-tied trays. Typically, one tray can hold about two to three kimonos.

Paulownia Ishoubon have been traditionally used to store kimonos and other delicate accessories because the wood helps protect against humidity. Paulownia wood absorbs moisture from the air, enhancing the tray’s airtightness and safeguarding the contents from moisture damage. When humidity levels drop, the wood releases the absorbed moisture.

Please note that due to their age, these Ishoubon may cause colour transfer to clothing and are not recommended for practical use as clothing trays. We appreciate your understanding. There is some wear and tear, as shown in the photos, but no damage that would affect their use.

Dimensions: outer tray: Height 7,5 cm, Width 38 cm, Depth 59 cm / inner tray: Height 7 cm, Width 35,5 cm, Depth 57 cm

Period: early Showa (1926-1989)

Material: paulownia