This is a Japanese antique Meiji or Edo Era (1890's) Japanese. This suzuribako (portable vanity) has 6 facing drawers and one "hidden drawer. The hidden drawer can be opened by pushing it open though a small hole on the back (see pic 11). the drawers are made of solid sugi wood (cryptomeria) and faced with zelkova wood. The top back and sides as well as the framing in the front is also zelkova. It has two square holes in the top to place a separate mirror. The box is finished in a lovely red varnish which shows off the unique grain of the zelkova. The metal hardware is copper and bronze with the large pull being in the shape of Daikokuji's lucky bag.
The method of construction as well as the copper and bronze work on this chest dates it to the 1890's. This chest was used to hold make up and writing materials, as well as, money and valuables.
Along with a century and a half old warm patina this chest remains in fine condition. This chest measures 14 1/2" long by 9 1/2'' wide by 11 1/2" tall (37 x 24 x 29 cm). It weights in at over 8 pounds. A very warm accent for your home or office. Great to hold pens, as well as, remote controls for the TV and stereo. Please enjoy the enlarged pictures to get a full appreciation of the fine wood grain and its century and a half old original patina.