Antique Ko-Choba Tansu, Small Japanese Merchant’s Chest, 1890–1915

Dimensions: height 53 cm, width 51 cm, depth 31.5 cm.

Used by merchants to store documents, money, seals, and small trade tools—hence the name choba-dansu; in this handy size also called ko-choba tansu.

Layout: six drawers in three different sizes, plus a spacious left-hand compartment with round lock plates (no key) and sliding doors.

Edges, corners, and fronts are reinforced with iron corner plates and strapwork; the hardware shows the beautiful, unpolished texture of old hand-forged iron.

The asymmetric façade, deep tone of the kiri wood, and signs of use give the piece a pronounced wabi-sabi presence. Decorative yet practical—ideal for storing small items and perfect as a display for ceramics, art, or plants.