Small Japanese vertical ko-dansu cabinet with five drawers crafted from paulownia wood (Paulownia spp.) and Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica), originating from Japan and dating to the late Taishō period and early Showa period, circa 1912–1945. Compact cabinets of this type were part of everyday Japanese domestic furniture used to store documents, textiles or personal items.
The structure features a vertical format with five drawers of varying proportions, each fitted with simple metal pull handles. The design reflects the functional approach typical of early twentieth-century Japanese furniture, where efficient storage and compact proportions were essential.
Paulownia wood was widely used in Japan due to its light weight, dimensional stability and natural resistance to humidity, while Japanese cedar provides a strong and aromatic internal structure. This combination of materials was common in both domestic and commercial furniture intended for everyday use.
The exterior surface now shows a deeply aged dark patina, developed through decades of use, with worn edges revealing the warm tone of the wood beneath. This natural wear gives the piece a strong sense of authenticity and character.
Today these small Japanese ko-dansu cabinets are highly appreciated as desk organizers, storage cabinets for small objects or decorative furniture in interiors inspired by wabi-sabi aesthetics, Japandi design or Japanese minimalism.
Details
Dimensions: 23 cm width × 38 cm depth × 43 cm height
Style: Taishō
Materials and techniques: paulownia wood (Paulownia spp.), Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica)
Place of origin: Japan
Period: Late Taishō – early Showa period
Date of manufacture: circa 1912–1945
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 small antique Japanese filing cabinet can be combined with any of our stools or with our available antique sideboards .
ONE OF A KIND
