Black Lacquer Isho Kasane Dansu From Shonai - Meiji Period

This striking antique Japanese Kasane Dansu chest is called a nuri-dansu meaning lacquered chest. It is finished in black lacquer and from the Shonai plains in Yamagata. Black lacquer dansu generally come from the cities of Tsuruoka & Sakata and this chest dates to the late 19th century in the Meiji period (1868 - 1912). One of our favourite details of this chest is the individual imagery on each lock plate depicting cranes and other iconography. 

There are five large drawers and two smaller ones in the bottom right corner. Kasane dansu is the term used for stacking chests - these chests separate into two parts. Isho tansu chests are specifically used for storing clothes. It was common for Japanese homes to have a summer clothing chest & winter clothing chest. The carrying handles allowed these chests to be stored in outhouses when not in use.

From Japan

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