Japanese Antique Tansu' Urushi Makie Plum Blossom Mini Box H6.3in

Crafted in black urushi lacquer with hand-painted gold plum blossoms, the portable chest called a japanese antique tansu reflects traditional makie art and contains three small drawers originally used to hold cosmetic tools for women. Compact and lightweight, it measures approximately H 6.3in × W 4.7in × D 4.7in (about H16cm×W12cm×D12cm) and weighs 16.7oz (475g), making it suitable as a lacquer jewelry box, portable trinket box, or desktop organizer. The metal fittings and knobs are custom-made with a matching plum blossom motif. Minor lacquer cracks and some peeling are present but do not affect daily use or storage.

Product details

The chest is a compact example of urushi lacquerware with makie-style floral decoration—a traditional vanity box form that historically held cosmetic tools. Its three drawers slide independently and the top carry handle and drawer knobs display the same plum blossom motif as the painted surface. As a small wooden chest and lacquer jewelry box, it adapts well to modern use for rings, brooches, cufflinks, loose beads, or other small accessories while lending collectible asian art character to a dressing table or shelf.

Condition and provenance

The piece is sold as a vintage japanese antique tansu with visible character consistent with age. There are lacquer cracks along a side panel and areas of peeling in the finish; these imperfections are described and pictured. The structure and drawer function remain intact, and metal fittings are secure. No restorative claims are made beyond noting cosmetic wear.

Styling and placement

Use this portable trinket box as a desktop organizer on a study or vanity, as an asian accent piece in a living room vignette, or grouped with other collectible asian art objects. The black-and-gold palette complements oriental interior style schemes and pairs naturally with wood and brass accents. Its compact footprint suits small shelves, bedside tables, or a dressing table where a vintage storage drawer is needed without occupying much space.

Care instructions

Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, extreme humidity, or heat sources to preserve the urushi lacquerware finish. Gently dust with a soft, dry cloth; do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents. Handle by the base when removing drawers to reduce stress on metal fittings and painted areas.

🌐 ーーー SHOP POLICIES & SHIPPING DETAILS ーーー

🌐 For International Buyers (Outside the US): 

Standard terms apply. Any import duties, local taxes, or customs clearance fees under your country's regulations are the responsibility of the buyer upon delivery (DDU).

✈️ SHIPPING & COURIER POLICY

• Covered Areas: We offer Free Shipping to the US, Europe, and most destinations. 

• Exceptions: For remote areas, Australia, New Zealand, or certain island destinations, additional shipping surcharges may apply for heavier/larger items. If a surcharge is required, we will contact you before shipping. If we cannot reach an agreement, the order will be fully refunded and canceled. (Light/small items generally ship free worldwide).

• Couriers: Orders are securely shipped via DHL, FedEx, EMS, or Japan Post with full tracking. The courier is selected by the shop depending on the package size and destination; buyers cannot specify the carrier. 

• Urgent Orders: Express upgrades are available for an additional fee. Please message us before purchasing if you need your item by a specific date.

📦 MULTIPLE ITEMS & COMBINED SHIPPING

• If you purchase two or more treasures together, we always combine shipping whenever safe and possible. While this may save shipping costs, it is not guaranteed for every order (e.g., combining fragile antique porcelain with heavy ironware). Any realized shipping savings will be happily refunded to you after packaging.

🛡️ RETURNING AN ITEM

• We accept returns within 7 days of delivery. For returns due to buyer’s remorse or personal reasons (e.g., changed your mind), the buyer is responsible for all round-trip shipping costs (original shipping + return shipping) and any applicable processing fees. The refund will be processed once the item is returned safely in its original condition.

🌸 ANTIQUE & VINTAGE CONDITION NOTE

• Please note that our items are authentic antiques and vintage pieces. As they have traveled through history, they naturally carry signs of age, including scratches, minor wear, or stains. We take detailed photos of every angle; please examine all photos carefully to understand the current condition before placing your order.

FAQ

Q: Is this japanese antique tansu suitable for daily use as a jewelry box?

A: Yes—drawer operation and fittings are functional; the piece performs well as a lacquer jewelry box or portable trinket box for daily small-item storage, noting the described lacquer cracks and peeling.

Q: Does the listing include all measurements and weight?

A: The listing provides full size (H 6.3in × W 4.7in × D 4.7in) and weight (16.7oz / 475g) as measured.

Q: Are the plum blossom details original?

A: The gold-painted plum blossom decoration and matching metal fittings are original to the piece as described and consistent with makie art decor and urushi lacquerware techniques.

Q: Can this chest be returned if damaged in shipping?

A: Shipping and return policies are handled by the seller; please review the shop policies or contact the seller directly for details about returns, insurance, and packaging for collectible asian art pieces.