Antique small Japanese cabinet crafted in Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica), Japan, late Taishō to early Showa period, circa 1912-1945.
Compact vertical cabinets of this type were part of everyday household furniture in early twentieth-century Japan. Designed to occupy minimal space while providing practical storage, they were commonly used to store clothing, documents or personal belongings.
The cabinet is constructed entirely from Japanese cedar, a light and stable wood valued in traditional Japanese carpentry for its natural aroma, resistance to humidity and ease of work. This material allowed craftsmen to create functional furniture that remained durable while keeping the overall weight relatively low.
The layout features a small upper drawer, a central compartment closed by a door and a lower drawer. Inside, a shelf divides the cabinet into two sections, offering practical and flexible storage.
The metal handles and simple fittings reflect the restrained aesthetic typical of utilitarian Japanese furniture. The design prioritizes functionality and proportion rather than decorative excess.
The surface displays a warm patina developed through decades of use. Subtle wear marks, tonal variations and softened edges add visual depth and reinforce the authentic character of the piece.
Today, small Japanese cabinets of this kind are highly appreciated as accent storage pieces in contemporary interiors. Their narrow vertical format makes them particularly suitable for compact spaces while adding a quiet sense of history and craftsmanship.
Details
Dimensions: Width: 23 cm Depth: 31 cm Height: 59 cm
Style: Taishō
Materials and techniques: Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica)
Place of origin: Japan
Period: Late Taishō, early Showa period
Date of manufacture: Circa 1912-1945
This piece is part of the collection of Amaru Antiques, Barcelona.
The state of conservation is optimal, except for the characteristic imperfections of any antique produced by the passage of time.
Give a point of originality to your home with a unique piece, which merges with the contemporary style bringing personality to your home. This small antique Japanese armoire can be combined with any of our chests of drawers or with our available antique desks.
ONE OF A KIND
