Antique Kyoto Kitchen Chest (Mizuya-Dansu) - FT09
This magnificent two-section stacking chest is an authentic Antique Kyoto Kitchen Chest (Mizuya-Dansu), dating to the late Meiji or early Taishō period (ca. 1910). The mizuya was a vital fixture in traditional homes, originally used for storage adjacent to the tea house's water area, before becoming a staple of the Japanese kitchen. Its generous dimensions make it a highly functional statement piece for any contemporary home.
Construction and Features
Originating from Kyoto, a region renowned for its refined tansu design, this chest is primarily constructed from Cedar (Sugi). High-impact and visible areas feature durable woods:
Elm (Keyaki) is used for the drawer fronts and the central panels of the sliding doors to provide structural strength and attractive grain contrast.
For lasting quality, the bottom edge of the sliding doors incorporates strips of striped Ebony/Persimmon (Kaki) to prevent wear against the track.
The chest's functional design is divided into three primary horizontal storage tiers:
Upper Tier: Features four small sliding doors, which provide easy access to a full-width internal compartment (See FT09i).
Middle Tier (Food Storage): This main section is accessed via larger sliding doors featuring elegant pierced wooden carvings (sukashibori). These carvings are backed by the original copper wire mesh, historically intended to allow ventilation while protecting prepared foods and stored contents from rodents.
Drawers: Four symmetrical drawers fitted with beautiful copper ring pulls (a style of hikite) are centrally located below the middle tier.
Lower Tier (Cabinet Storage): The bottom section is secured by two large sliding doors. This cabinet opens to reveal one fixed internal shelf, providing two generously sized storage levels ideal for bulkier items or display.
This chest is a genuine cultural artefact, perfect for use as a grand sideboard, buffet, or unique display cabinet.
