​Kyōdai Vanity Chest with Mirror, 1930s

Details

Description

A beautiful japanese vanity chest dating from around 1930, featuring an adjustable mirror, richly figured wood veneer and an exquisite … Read more A beautiful japanese vanity chest dating from around 1930, featuring an adjustable mirror, richly figured wood veneer and an exquisite decoration of cranes and pine trees.

dimensions: h 110 × w 53.5 × d 25 cm.

this traditional japanese kyōdai features six drawers of varying sizes and a storage compartment behind a small door. The warm reddish-brown wood tones and striking, flowing veneer grain give the piece a rich and distinctive character.

above the drawers is a small display surface finished with white textured glass. It creates a beautiful contrast with the dark wood and provides a practical place for jewellery, hairpins and other small personal accessories.

beneath the tilting mirror is an exquisitely decorated panel depicting cranes in flight among pine branches. The scene is delicately rendered in shades of white, gold and blue-green, with subtle raised details. In japanese culture, cranes and pine trees symbolise longevity, happiness and prosperity.

a kyōdai is a traditional japanese vanity used for hair care and applying make-up, typically while seated on a tatami floor. Its various drawers provided storage for cosmetics, hair accessories and personal belongings.

today, this charming piece also makes a wonderful decorative addition to a bedroom, displayed on a low chest of drawers or sideboard.

in lovely vintage condition, with authentic signs of age. The mirror glass shows visible ageing, while the veneer on the small door has some wear, neither of which detracts significantly from the character of the piece.

a beautiful example of japanese craftsmanship, combining decorative refinement with everyday functionality.

a distinctive accent for a contemporary interior. See less