Shiga Artisan's/Merchant's Shop Chest (Ko-Chōba-Dansu) - FT20

This compact vintage Japanese Shop Chest, or Ko-Chōba-Dansu (Small Shop Chest), dates to the Early Showa Period (circa 1930). Originally used by either a merchant for ledgers or an artisan for organising small tools, its design prioritises meticulous organisation. It is perfect today as a desktop filing cabinet or collector's storage.

Features

Originating from the Shiga region, this chest is defined by its clean lines and simple, highly functional design.

Constructed entirely from prized Hinoki (Japanese Cypress), known for its pale golden colour, subtle grain, and natural resistance to decay, this chest is built for longevity. It features a symmetrical arrangement of eight shallow stacked drawers, a meticulous configuration purpose-built for the organisation and classification of small items. The minimalist hardware features simple, arched iron bar pull handles (hikiite) centred on each drawer face. For proof of authenticity, a visible fragment of the original commercial label remains glued to the side, confirming its history as an object of commerce.