Small Japanese cabinet with decorated sliding doors crafted from paulownia wood (Paulownia spp.), originating from Japan and dating to the early Showa period, circa 1926–1970. Compact cabinets of this type were traditionally used in Japanese homes to store documents, utensils or textiles while occupying minimal space.
The façade features two illustrated sliding doors depicting a scene inspired by Japanese Kabuki theatre, showing a dramatic actor figure with stylized makeup and ceremonial costume. This imagery draws inspiration from the tradition of ukiyo-e prints, which strongly influenced decorative arts in Japan from the Edo period through the twentieth century.
Inside the cabinet there are two horizontal shelves for storage and organization, while the lower section contains two small drawers. The combination of sliding doors and drawers is a typical functional solution in compact Japanese furniture designed for everyday use.
Paulownia wood was widely valued in Japan for its light weight, dimensional stability and natural resistance to humidity. The piece retains a warm natural patina, with a beautiful contrast between the wood grain and the dark red lacquered frame surrounding the illustrated panels.
Today these small Japanese cabinets are highly appreciated as desk cabinets, tea storage pieces, small sideboards or decorative furniture in interiors inspired by wabi-sabi aesthetics, Japandi design and Japanese minimalism.
Details
Dimensions: 66 cm width × 23 cm depth × 31 cm height
Style: Showa
Materials and techniques: paulownia wood (Paulownia spp.)
Place of origin: Japan
Period: Early Showa period
Date of manufacture: circa 1926–1970
Condition: Good. Wear consistent with age and use with natural patina.
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 antique Japanese base cabinet can be combined with any of our armchairs or with our available antique vases .
ONE OF A KIND
