An antique Japanese Choba Tansu (merchant chest) made of Keyaki (Zelkova), Suginoki (Cryptomeria) and Kirinoki (Paulownia) woods. Original Urushi lacquer front with a wiped lacquer technique used on the body. Hand made iron fittings with the round sliding door handles featuring an incised design of a lucky Pine tree and an old Minka (thatched roof Japanese home). The bottom hinged door opens to reveal a set of 3 small drawers.

Merchant chests provided two important key elements for the store owner. The first was its functionality as a chest to consolidate the shop records, books, receipts and bills as well as the writing tools that were needed. It also functioned as a money safe to store coins, bills and valuables. The second important role was a way to advertise and convey to customers who saw the chest that the business was very successful and it would continue for generations to come.

Age: Meiji period (1868-1912)

Dimensions: 41" Wide x 38 1/4" High x 17" Deep