#2 Staircase chest
(kaidan-dansu)

A handsome and beautifully proportioned "kaidan-dansu" or staircase chest, from the port city of Kashiwazaki, central Niigata Prefecture, NW Japan. This very striking and rare piece came from an Edo Period merchant's shop cum residence in the center of town. The fact the chest was in a place where business was transacted explains the locks on the two long, large drawers and the secret boxes behind them. The frame is made of cedar, but all the slatted doors are keyaki. Excellent original condition, except for minor repair to frame underside. In two sections. Late Edo Period.

L 142 x H 203 x D 69 cm