Antique Japanese Hon-bako (book storage chest)
Compact keyaki wood storage chest with removable sliding door · Meiji to Taishō period (c. 1880–1920).
This antique Japanese hon-bako was sourced in Japan and selected for its craftsmanship, history, and quiet presence.
ABOUT THIS PIECE
This antique Japanese hon-bako (book storage chest) is crafted in keyaki (Japanese zelkova), a wood prized for its strength and expressive grain. The front features a characteristic removable door: it lifts upward and then slides out, a simple and efficient mechanism typical of traditional Japanese cabinetry.
Originally used to store books and documents, this type of chest reflects a different relationship to books in Japan. Rather than hardbound volumes, traditional Japanese books were softer and bound in a way that required them to be stored horizontally rather than vertically. The proportions of the chest naturally follow this function.
CULTURAL NOTE
Hon-bako were part of everyday domestic life, used to store books, papers, and personal belongings in an orderly and protected way.
The use of keyaki wood was particularly valued for both its durability and its dynamic grain. Rather than relying on heavy ornamentation, pieces such as this emphasize proportion, material, and craftsmanship.
DELIVERY
Delivery is included in the prices shown for Europe, the United States and Japan. For other destinations, please contact us for a delivered price.
Secure, reinforced packaging with tracking.
Note: Import duties or taxes may apply depending on the regulations of the destination country. For items over 100 years old, reduced import duties or taxes may apply in some countries. On request, we can provide a certificate stating the item’s estimated age to assist with customs clearance.
DETAILS & PRICE
SKU: A173
Price:
Europe: €520 — delivery to Europe included
United States: US$600 — delivery to the USA included
Japan: ¥48,000 — delivery within Japan included
Material: Keyaki wood (Japanese zelkova)
Period: Meiji to Taishō period (c. 1890s–1920s)
Origin: Japan
Features:
Keyaki wood construction · removable sliding door · open upper shelf · compact functional format · designed for horizontal book storage · expressive natural grain
Dimensions: W 42 × D 27 × H 55 cm (16.5 × 10.6 × 21.7 in)
Condition:
Good antique condition · age-related wear and patina · minor splits to the back panels consistent with age and wood movement · structurally solid
Reserve or enquire about this piece
Each piece is unique.
You may reserve this item or enquire for further details.
We will confirm availability and provide a secure payment link if you wish to proceed.
No payment is required at this stage. Reservations are held for 24 hours.
