Japan - Kuruma Tansu - Edo

Kuruma tansu, (roller storage chest), made of keyaki (elm), Kiri (chestnut), and Suginoki (cryptomeria) wood. Two drawers below the upper part are held in place by a locking bar. The upper part has a large compartment, closed by sliding panels with horizontal slats. Original wrought iron fittings. Missing key. Kuruma tansu were used to store valuables. The wheels made them easy to move outside during fires, which were very common in Japan where houses were made entirely of wood. These wheeled storage units are rare because they were banned in Japan in the 19th century. Many families carried their belongings down the street during a fire, making the road impassable for firefighters. Origin: Japan. Period: Edo (1600-1868) Dimensions: Height: 106 cm; Length: 128 cm; Width: 60 cm. Conditions: Very good condition, nice patina.