Antique Japanese Keyaki Choba Dansu Merchant's Chest From Yonezawa

Here we have a stunning Japanese Choba-Dansu, dating back to the late Edo Period (1603-1867) to the early Meji Period (1868-1912). Typically constructed utilising indigenous woods, we believe this piece is built from aged Keyaki (Japanese Zelkova) due to the high contrast and prominent wavy lines. Historically, this traditional mobile storage cabinet, would have been used simultaneously as a safe, filing system and active workstation. Taking a closer look at the Choba-Dansu we can see three distinctive compartments/sections, each unique and created with meaning. The upper compartment (Hikido) would have been used to keep accounts papers as the ventilation was crucial to preserve the delicate washi papers dry and mould free. Moving down, we have the middle compartment (Hikidashi) used to store varying denominations of currency. Lasty we have the lower compartment, which would have been used to store heavy items such as: textile stock or specialised business merchandise. Fitted with heavy, hand-forged iron fittings we can see a stunning locking bar securing the upper slats and four C-shaped drop-handle drawer pulls (warabite style) anchored by iron brackets. We have left this item in its raw state with slight markings/ scuffs however in saying that all of the drawers and sliding door compartments are still fully functional and would add a real rustic charm to any home. This Choba Dansu could easily be repurposed into a beautiful bar storage/ drinks preparation unit, or even a unique book cabinet. The dimensions are as follows H 88cm by W 88cm by D 43cm Free Shipping with orders over £35 for UK mainland Please pay via Debit/Credit card/Bank Transfer not paypal - as we ship via private transporter and cannot provide a tracking number (they will have your contact details) Thank you for looking and please don't hesitate to contact us with any questions! Check out our Facebook and Instagram (Apeman Interiors)