A rare antique Japanese Choba Kotansu (merchant small chest) made of Hinoki (Cypress) and Suginoki (Cryptomeria) woods. All original hand forged iron hardware. Removable hinge doors behind which hides a removable horizontal bar that securely latches the left door in place. Spacious storage behind the doors where the merchant kept his store books and records. Two upper drawers were used to keep money and valuables. Beautiful original calligraphy on the sides and back of the tansu. Side swivel handles through which a pole is inserted allowing two persons to carry this chest from place to place.

Age: Edo Period (1800 to 1850)

Dimensions: 22 1/2" Wide by 25" High by 18" Deep