Antique Suzuribako Tansu, Japanese Storage Chest, 1860s.

A compact wooden chest with three drawers and a top compartment that opens via a push button. The iron fittings, corner plates, and round lock plate give it the robust, classic tansu presence. On the inside of the lid you can see beautiful old ink traces—quiet evidence of long use as a writing and document chest.

Dimensions: height 21.5 cm, width 18 cm, depth 27 cm. Dating: late Edo period.

The drawers run smoothly and hold pens, stationery, and small tools; beneath the lid there is extra space for notebooks or documents. The wood shows a well-worn, dark surface with natural wear and warm highlights. This authentic patina could only have formed over time.

A characterful piece for desk or studio: ideal for writing tools, seals, and notebooks, and just as lovely repurposed as an original jewelry chest. Its compact size fits easily on a sideboard or worktable and immediately adds history and calm to an interior.