Meiji Japanese Merchant Writing Table Wood Desk Three Drawer for Tatami Room Antique

Meiji Japanese Three drawer Wood Writing Desk: Antique

This simple and functional Japanese antique desk stands on beautifully shaped supports. This three drawer scholar or calligrapher or merchant desk is estimated to be from the Tomoko region of Japan. This type of bench like tansu is known as a tsukue (desk) and held various writing materials, owner’s hanko, ink and an abacus in the draws.
It is a perfect size and height to act as a desk sitting on the tatami floor.
The straightforward design, the dark weathered wood, and the traces of use full of history make this table a unique interior object. Made of solid (Keyaki?)hardwood with warm radiant original finish.

Japanese Meiji Period (1868 – 1912)
Low Table with Recessed Legs
Detailed symmetrical carved legs
Open Carved Cutout Legs of design – of a nikuman
Used as a writing table
Rectangular top over hang over two recessed legs show casing pierced motifs of nikuman (a Japanese steamed bun & popular snack)
The pierced motif on the legs/side supports gives a hint that this could have been used as a desk by a merchant selling this popular snack
Nice distressed patina throughout
Approximately: Width 42 x Depth 16 x Height 10 inch
Hand forged darkened bronze metal hardware
Two small draw on ends with single drop hanging ring handle and a separate lock
A wider draw in the middle with two handles and a lock
One key available for all three locks. Unable to lock/unlock with this key
Constructed using mortise and tenon Japanese joinery
Made in Japan

Style Notes: In modern times, this low desk could be used very beautifully as a low display stand. Compared to Europe and America, the design, which is a remnant of the low-lying lifestyle, has a special effect on making the space feel taller and wider.
Decorative and combinable in various interior styles. Use as a coffee table or a side table. Perfect for presenting plants, orchids, ceramic, art an ikebana for a wabi-sabi feel. Present day contemporary uses for this desk would include additional storage and document shelf atop a full sized counter or large desk. An elegant riser to showcase a statue, orchids or figurines.