{"product_id":"japanese-iron-bound-chest","title":"Japanese Nagamochi Kuruma Chest – Edo Period (17th Century)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis very unusual \u003cstrong\u003eJapanese Nagamochi Kuruma chest\u003c\/strong\u003e dates from the \u003cstrong\u003eEdo period (17th century)\u003c\/strong\u003e and is crafted from \u003cstrong\u003eJapanese cryptomeria (sugi)\u003c\/strong\u003e with beautifully figured grain and a rich, time-worn patina developed over centuries of use. Traditionally used for storing clothing, valuables and household possessions, Nagamochi chests were designed for both practicality and security, often serving as important family storage pieces. The chest is complemented by substantial hand-forged iron mounts, corner reinforcements and decorative hardware that exemplify the robust craftsmanship of the period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe heavy lid opens using an ingenious \u003cstrong\u003esliding hinge mechanism\u003c\/strong\u003e at the rear, allowing it to be completely removed when required. Inside, the spacious compartment incorporates a stepped section created by a concealed sliding drawer located in the lower left corner. Hidden behind this drawer is a \u003cstrong\u003esecret compartment\u003c\/strong\u003e, originally intended for safeguarding valuable documents, money or personal possessions. The chest retains its original iron lock and matching key, further enhancing both its functionality and historical authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCombining exceptional construction with remarkable originality, this Nagamochi chest is an outstanding example of early Japanese furniture. Its bold ironwork, warm cryptomeria grain and cleverly concealed storage make it equally appealing as a collector's piece or as a distinctive coffee table, blanket chest or statement storage piece in a contemporary interior.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReference:\u003c\/strong\u003e For further reading on Japanese storage chests and their regional variations, see \u003cem\u003eTansu: Traditional Japanese Cabinetry\u003c\/em\u003e by Ty and Kiyoko Heineken with Charles Tuttle, one of the definitive reference works on antique Japanese furniture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Edo Period, 17th Century\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaterials:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Cryptomeria (Sugi), Hand-Forged Iron\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFeatures:\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTraditional Nagamochi storage chest\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRich original patina with beautifully figured cryptomeria grain\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeavy hand-forged iron mounts and corner reinforcements\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIngenious removable lid with sliding hinge mechanism\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpacious interior with stepped compartment\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConcealed sliding drawer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHidden secret compartment behind the drawer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOriginal iron lock and key included\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Very good antique condition with age-related wear, surface marks and patination consistent with over three centuries of use. Original ironwork and timber throughout with excellent character.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e W81 x D58 x H58 cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 36 kg\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Indigo Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57831766786431,"sku":"M1086","price":2150.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0217\/2522\/files\/Antique_Japanese_Nagamochi_Kuruma_Chest_M1086.jpg?v=1782379402","url":"https:\/\/www.indigo-uk.com\/products\/japanese-iron-bound-chest","provider":"Indigo Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}