Japanese Antique Low Table ‘Chabudai (ちゃぶ台)’

This Japanese antique low table, known as a ‘chabudai (ちゃぶ台),’ dates back to the early Showa period (1926-1989). It was used on a traditional Japanese ‘tatami (畳)’ floor. Tatami floor mats, made from rice straw, have been used for centuries as a type of floor covering in Japanese homes. Historically, the Japanese lived a floor-sitting lifestyle.

In the Middle Ages (12th-17th centuries), Japanese people ate meals on individual trays called “meimeizen,” with each person’s meal served on their own tray. Until the Edo period (1603-1868), Japan was a vertical society, even within families, with hierarchical relationships between the head of the household and the rest, and between men and women. They did not sit at the same table. During the meimeizen (individual tray) era, conversation during meals was often prohibited, and fathers were the ones who discussed necessary matters.

‘Chabudai’ low tables appeared in the Meiji period (1868-1912). Eating at the same table signifies equality in human relationships. It is said that “family gatherings,” where family members enjoy meals while chatting, began with the introduction of chabudai tables. Conversations became more relaxed, and the focus of discussion shifted from the father to the mother, children, or grandmother.

The main feature of ‘chabudai’ low tables is that you sit and eat. Everyone sits close together on the same level, reducing the sense of distance between people compared to sitting at a table. Above all, for the Japanese, who have long lived in the lifestyle of sitting directly on the ‘Tatami’ floor, sitting is relaxing.

In modern homes, this piece can serve various purposes. It can simply stand as a decorative item, a sofa-side coffee table, or a flower table. In all cases, it creates a modest yet distinctive presence.

Dimensions: Height 32 cm, Width 74 cm, Depth 74 cm

Period: early Showa (1926-1989)