Circa 1950 Japanese Sugi Nuno-Hari Chabako (Storage Chest)

Description

Excellent Pre-Owned Condition.

Chabako are traditional Japanese cedar wood (sugi) boxes with galvanized tin lined interiors. Originating in the late … more Excellent Pre-Owned Condition.

Chabako are traditional Japanese cedar wood (sugi) boxes with galvanized tin lined interiors. Originating in the late Edo period, the cedar wood (sugi) and galvanized tin lining offered excellent moisture, insect and oxidation-proof qualities for keeping tea leaves fresh while being transported overseas. In the 1950s, with the introduction of cardboard and aluminum bags as alternatives for the transport and storage of tea, the Chabako was threatened with obsoletion. Because of the Chabako’s culturally rich history and utility, innovative Japanese artisans transformed its look-and-feel, creating stunningly beautiful boxes and chests that come in a variety of sizes, from miniatures that can adorn table-tops to medium-size ones (as seen in the photos) and some that are even larger that serve as stylish and highly practical storage benches. The fabulous Chabako you see in the photos was made sometime in the mid to late 1950s. Its making began with thirty-year-old Japanese sugi (cedar wood) that was exposed to the elements (rain and wind) for two months then dipped in water, flattened by stacking them and placing heavy stones on top until they were thoroughly dried. This process strengthens the wood and prevents warping. The galvanized tin lining inside the box and on the underside of the lid fortifies its structural integrity. Washi (Japanese paper) tape coverings are used for all the corners of the box and the rim to improve durability. The vibrant silk fabric is wrapped all around and secured with tacks, staples and adhesive. This beauty measures as follows:

Overall: 20½” x 14¼” x 16” W/D/H
Interior: 18” x 12½” x 15” W/D/H
Weight: approximately 15 lbs.
Silk fabric colors: background consists of soft golden ivory and tan hues with a geometric medallion motif accented with cinnabar red, royal blue and iridescent gold.

In excellent condition with age-appropriate wear such as minor scuffing to the hardware (see all photos closely). In addition, there is a faint or faded (what appears to be) watermark on the upper right hand corner of the lid (see photo 7 & 9) which does not affect its utility or loveliness. This sustainable beauty will make an ideal accent storage chest in a small entryway, breezeway or child’s room.

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