Japanese Wooden Storage Cabinet “Getabako”, 1900s

Characterful, hand-made solid-wood cabinet with a removable front panel.

Dimensions: height 40 cm, width 48 cm, depth 30 cm.

The front bears the black-ink inscription 下駄箱 (getabako) — literally “geta box/cabinet,” i.e., a shoe cabinet.

Dating to the late Meiji period, it shows a warm, nutty tone, evident handcraft, and an even, well-loved patina. Inside are two shelves; side handgrips make it easy to move. The low, stable silhouette with notched sled feet gives it a calm, timeless presence.

Originally for neatly storing traditional footwear (geta), it now serves as a versatile wabi-sabi accent: a compact storage piece for hallway or bath, a side table beside sofa or bed, or a display stage for ceramics, ikebana, or bonsai.

A unique, authentic piece that beautifully unites function and poetry.