Export Isho Dansu from Sakata - Late 19th Century

This finely crafted kasane isho dansu (stacking clothing chest) originates from Sakata, a prosperous port town in northern Japan known for its merchant wealth and distinctive cabinetry traditions. Made in the late 19th century from richly grained keyaki (Japanese zelkova, 榉木), it shows dramatic swirling patterns across the drawer fronts. The bold iron mounts, including layered chrysanthemum lock plates and protective corner fittings, exemplify Meiji-period metalworking. In Japanese symbolism, the chrysanthemum represents longevity, renewal, and the Imperial household.

What distinguishes this chest is its original, purpose-made stand. Traditional tansu sat directly on tatami flooring and did not include stands. The presence of one here, crafted from the same keyaki with complementary ironwork, strongly suggests that this piece was made for export during the late Meiji period. A closely related example of iron decoration appears in Figure 155 of Traditional Japanese Cabinetry: Tansu by Ty and Kiyoko Heineken, reinforcing the northern workshop attribution. The chest also carries notable provenance, having come from Hiroshi Yanagi Oriental Art, Kyoto.

• Origin: Sakata, Yamagata Prefecture, northern Japan
• Date: Late 19th century
• Materials: Keyaki (Japanese zelkova, 榉木) with hand forged iron hardware
• Form: Two-part kasane isho dansu stacking clothing chest with original matching stand
• Details: Chrysanthemum lock plates; protective corner fittings; expressive keyaki grain; original iron handles
• Provenance: Originally purchased from Hiroshi Yanagi Oriental Art, Kyoto and then via the UK art market
• Reference: Comparable ironwork illustrated in Figure 155, Traditional Japanese Cabinetry: Tansu, Ty & Kiyoko Heineken
• Condition: Excellent antique condition with age-related patina
• Dimensions: Width 99 × Depth 44 × Height 99.5 cm

A rare late-Meiji keyaki kasane isho dansu with its original stand, likely crafted for the export market, enriched with refined ironwork and supported by excellent provenance.