These isho tansu (traditional clothing chests) represent a rare and harmonious example of matched “his and hers” storage furniture from the late Edo period to the early Meiji period. Formerly part of the Seattle Art Museum’s collection and later deaccessioned, these chests exemplify the refined craftsmanship and the cultural aesthetic of Japanese domestic interiors. Each chest is made from keyaki wood and likely originates from the Mikuni region. The ‘male’ tansu is designated by the safe box on the lower right.

Late 19^th-Early 20^th century (Edo/Meiji period), Japan

Ex Seattle Art Museum

Ex Frank Stout Collection