This Japanese tansu is made in the traditional isho kasane dansu style in 2 parts with 4 drawers. It dates to the Meji era, circa 1890 and has traditional Japanese black painted iron corners and handware. Note the Kanto style came from the Kanto region around Tokyo. Kanto style tansu were popular during the Meiji era and imitated the earlier Edo style. Japanese tastes consider this style of tansu as refined and this style is often referred to as iki (chic).  As time went on, the Kanto style spread to be imitated by other areas in Japan. 

This isho dansu is made in the traditional way and would have been crafted by two specialists, a carpenter, and an ironworker. This tansu is constructed from kiri wood (paulownia). Kasane dansu were made as clothing chest of drawers for storage of expensive clothing and garments. Homes usually had one clothing chest for winter clothing and a separate one for summer clothing. Carrying handles allowed these chests to be stored in outhouses when not in use.

References:

A similar example can be found in Japanese Cabinetry: The Art & Craft of Tansu by Jackson & Owen, page 180.

From Japan

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