One of the most iconic items of Japanese storage furniture is the tansu. In this article, we will explore its origins and how it continues to be relevant in modern times.
What is Tansu?
The Origins of Tansu
Tansu refers to wooden furniture used for storing items such as clothing, accessories, and small household goods. It is typically made up of drawers and cupboards. The word "tansu" is believed to have originated from a Chinese term referring to a round or curved bamboo box used to store food.
Depending on the items stored, tansu may be referred to as isho-tansu (clothing chest), cha-tansu (tea chest), or kashi-tansu (sweets chest).
The origin of tansu dates back to the early Edo period (1603–1867). Prior to that, common people did not own enough clothing to require a chest of drawers, and instead used box-like storage furniture such as nagamochi (long boxes) or tsuzura (woven bamboo chests).
However, with the improvement in cotton production and the rise in living standards, even commoners began to own more clothing, leading to a growing demand for tansu.
Tsuzura: A type of lidded basket woven from the vines of the tsuzurafuji plant.
Nagamochi and Nagamochiguruma: Large, box-shaped storage units used primarily by samurai families to store clothing and bedding.
Sturdy Furniture for Storage
During the Edo period, buildings were densely packed, and a single fire often affected multiple houses. This was a time when sturdy storage units that could protect household belongings were highly valued. For instance, in 1657, the Great Fire of Meireki, which burned down two-thirds of Edo, highlighted the need for such storage. One of the reasons for the fire’s spread was the widespread use of nagamochiguruma by commoners. As a result, the demand for tansu increased further. Interestingly, the practice of counting tansu as "one chest," "two chests" (using the term hitosa or futasa), is thought to have originated from this great fire.
Paulownia wood, often used in tansu, is known for its high moisture absorbency, which made it effective in absorbing water during firefighting efforts, helping to prevent flames from spreading. However, compared to nagamochiguruma, tansu required significant amounts of materials like paulownia, as well as other woods such as cypress and cedar. Additionally, the intricate decorative metal fittings used on each drawer further increased the need for skilled craftsmanship. As a result, during the early Edo period, when there were stark differences between rich and poor, tansu remained out of reach for the common people.
Decorative Metal Fittings
Tansu used until the late Edo period were often utilised by the samurai class, and were typically made from strong woods like zelkova. These chests emphasised durability, but in addition to their sturdiness, they were often adorned with elaborate decorations.
One of these decorative features was kazarikanagu, or metal fittings formed from metal plates. These fittings served both as reinforcements for the edges and doors, as well as a way to express individuality and status.
The Spread and Establishment of Tansu
Widespread use among the general public in the Meiji period
Tansu became widely established among the general populace from the mid-Meiji period (1868–1912) through to the Taisho period (1912–1926).
This was due to advances in industrialisation, which significantly improved the availability of materials and tools, and the nationwide development of distribution systems, including exports abroad.
As tansu became more common, they also began to be regarded as part of a bride’s trousseau. In earlier times, it was customary for a family to plant a paulownia tree in their garden when a daughter was born.
By the time she reached marriageable age (around 15 to 20 years later), the tree would be fully grown and used to make a tansu for her dowry.
After the Meiji period, tansu evolved further with a focus on practicality, especially to prevent theft, as they were often used to store valuables and money.
Development and Characteristics of Local Tansu
As tansu gradually spread and became more established, different regions developed their own distinct styles.
Here are some examples of famous tansu from various areas:
Iwayado Tansu
Iwayado Tansu is one of the traditional Japanese chests of drawers produced mainly in Iwate Prefecture. Made primarily from paulownia and zelkova wood, it is characterised by its stunning wood grain, rich lacquer finish, and intricate, bold hand-carved metal fittings.
The metal fittings on these tansu are particularly noteworthy, coming in two main types: hand-hammered carvings and Nambu ironware. The hand-hammered fittings were created individually using hammers, featuring embossed designs of dragons and lions, giving the tansu a distinctive, three-dimensional appearance.
Sendai Tansu
(Ref: Mainichi Shimbun)
Sendai Tansu originated from the samurai of the Sendai Domain in Miyagi Prefecture, who began crafting them as a side job during the late Edo period.
At that time, it was referred to as the "yarou-gata" (young man type), featuring a design with a sword on the top shelf and a safe in the lower right, functioning as a concealed chest for storing items under a futon closet.
These chests were typically made from zelkova wood, finished with lacquer, and are characterised by their ornate decorative metal fittings.
Even today, antique Sendai Tansu are highly sought after.
Shonai Tansu
Shonai Tansu is a type of traditional Japanese chest produced mainly in Sakata and Tsuruoka cities in Yamagata Prefecture. It is crafted in the Shonai region along the Mogami River, where the renowned haiku poet Matsuo Basho once composed verses.
Chests made in Tsuruoka City are particularly notable for their black lacquer finish, often referred to as "kurozome tansu" (black-dyed chests). They may feature reddish metal fittings that stand out against the glossy black surface.
Additionally, the handles are distinctive; while the typical handle is rounded and known as "warabite," there are also square handles called "kakute" available.
Yonezawa Tansu
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Like the Shonai Tansu, the Yonezawa Tansu is another traditional chest produced in Yamagata Prefecture. It features round lock fittings and is adorned with beautiful metal engravings depicting cherry blossoms, butterflies, and treasure balls.
While the metalwork has a subtle presence, it is crafted in such a way that it harmonises with the interior, providing a sense of weightiness without being overly ostentatious.
This chest combines a sense of elegance with an ability to blend into its surroundings, and it is said to be a precursor to the previously mentioned Sendai and Iwayado Tansu.
The examples described above represent only a portion of the regional chests.
From the late Taisho period onwards, Tokyo-style kiri chests became fashionable, leading to a decline in the production of these regionally developed Japanese chests. Nevertheless, their historical and cultural value is highly regarded. Today, various artisans continue to uphold this tradition, ensuring that these skills are not lost.
Modern Tansu
Having been cherished as storage furniture for centuries, traditional Japanese tansu continue to be beloved items in modern times, serving not only as bridal dowries but also as elements that enhance the atmosphere of a room in contemporary combinations.
The rising demand for antiques and the renewed appreciation for the spirit of Japan and its interior design, both domestically and internationally, contribute to this enduring popularity. Many tansu are often remade to retain their original charm.
While they continue to be used as clothing cabinets, in contemporary settings, tansu are also frequently repurposed as dish cabinets. Even in modern homes, which are often Western-style rather than traditional, the presence of a single tansu can add an air of elegance and sophistication.
In this article, we explored the traditional Japanese storage furniture known as tansu. From the Edo period to the present day, tansu have continued to embody craftsmanship, adding a touch of Japanese essence to our lives.
The enduring affection for these pieces over the centuries can likely be attributed to the beauty of the skilled techniques infused with the artisans’ spirit.
If you have the opportunity, do take the time to appreciate the unique charm of contemporary tansu, which continue to be cherished and used today.
