Hangai 半櫃 (half-chest) funa-dansu 船箪笥 (ship's chest)...

A rare wooden stacked hangai 半櫃 (half-chest) funa-dansu 船箪笥 (ship's chest) from Sado Island, constructed in two sections and richly adorned with auspicious iron fittings. This distinctive type of ship chest originates from Sado Island 佐渡, off the coast of present-day Niigata Prefecture 新潟県. Designed for maritime merchants, hangai chests were compact yet robust, allowing them to be stacked securely aboard coastal trading vessels while providing protected storage for valuables and documents. The cabinet is constructed with a sturdy frame and removable front panels of kiri 桐 (paulownia) wood, finished in a deep brown lacquer with an attractive patina. The drawer fronts are crafted from finely grained hinoki 檜 (Japanese cypress). The entire cabinet is reinforced with exceptionally elaborate hand-forged iron fittings. Both sections opens by removing the front panel, revealing two spacious drawers. The lock plates and corner fittings of the upper section are decorated with cranes 鶴 (tsuru), while those of the lower section depict minogame 蓑亀, the mythical long-tailed turtle. Together they form a highly auspicious pairing in Japanese art, both symbolising longevity, prosperity, and good fortune. The removable panels are fitted with hirute 蛭手 bail handles, complemented by chrysanthemum-shaped studs, while the drawers retain kakute 角手 bail handles. The sides are fitted with sturdy warabite 蕨手 carrying handles and an unusual side locking mechanism, a rarely encountered feature that allowed the two sections to be secured together during transport (not functional anymore). The two parts are also very suited to be placed next to each other. Period: Japan – Second half Edo period (18th century/First half 19th century) Dimensions: Height: 108.1 cm (T 53.8 cm; B 54.3 cm); Width: 81.7 cm; Depth: 43.8 cm. The cabinet is in very good restored condition, with wear consistent with age and use, including reparation to the upper lock plate. Please refer to the photographs for a clear condition reference. When shipped, a certificate of authenticity will be included.

Estimation:€2,900

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