Circa 1850 Japanese Funa-Dansu Tansu (Sea Merchants Chest) in Keyaki Wood

Item Details

An exceptional circa 1850 Japanese funa-dansu tansu in richly grained keyaki wood, traditionally used by merchants and ship captains to safeguard valuables while traveling by sea. The desirable chest is embellished with hand forged iron hardware, hinges and locks indicating the owners high status with all keys present and working. An unusual element are the two vertical locking bars that secure the four larger drawers in the center. Three additional drawers are side by side across the top and further storage is available in a drawer and a small cabinet with two inner drawers at the bottom. The chest is noted to have been from the Yamagata Region, which was an important marine transportation spot with a route to the Sea of Japan.

Condition

- both locking bars and the keys are present.

Dimensions

Item #

16CIN389-002