An antique Japanese Gyosho Bako also known as a merchant peddler's chest with the outer case and hinged door made of Kirinoki (Paulownia) and the inner drawers and drawer floor boards made of Hinoki (Cypress) woods. All original Urushi lacquer finish and hand made iron fittings. Side handles swivel up allowing a wood or bamboo pole to slide through so that two attendants can easily transport the chest. Alternatively, the horizontal wooden bar securing a rope in conjunction with the two rope holes at the bottom allowed the peddler to carry this tansu on his back. Hinged door opens to 6 drawers where the merchandise was stored.

The Gyosho Bako has become increasingly rare and difficult to find in Japan. Each style of this class of chest was exclusively custom made for the peddler and the convenience of his trade. This chest is dated the year 1764.

Edo Period (1603-1868)

16" Wide (including the wood bar) x 34 1/4" High x 19 1/4" Deep