Vintage Japanese Kiri Wedding Tansu (Kyoto, ca. 1970)
This elegant, three-section Kyoto Tansu is an authentic Japanese Wedding Chest, known as a Yomeiri Dansu, crafted circa 1970. It represents the enduring tradition of creating a protective heirloom from Paulownia (Kiri) wood for a new household.
The Kiri Tradition: This Tansu carries the powerful Japanese custom of planting a Kiri tree upon a daughter's birth; the wood is later harvested to create her dowry chest, symbolising preparedness and provision.
Design & Protection: The cabinet is structured in transportable sections. Kiri wood was chosen for its natural ability to regulate humidity and repel insects, ideal for preserving delicate textiles like kimonos. The timber is finished with a traditional Tonoko (natural clay) coating, which seals the grain to ensure long-term preservation.
