This late Meiji period Japanese tabako-bon (smoking cabinet) is crafted from beautifully figured burr zelkova (keyaki) with finely hand-forged white metal mounts. These elaborate smoking stands were a mark of refinement in Japanese homes, where they were used to present tobacco and smoking accessories to guests as an important gesture of hospitality.

The upper section is fitted with its original copper ash receptacle or charcoal brazier, complete with a richly decorated lid carved in relief with a dragon emerging from swirling clouds (a powerful symbol of wisdom, strength and good fortune in Japanese culture). The body of the cabinet features two hooks for holding a smoking pipe, six external drawers and a lockbox style cupboard enclosing inspired by the tansu furniture found across Japan. There is a concealed upper drawer, all designed to organise tobacco, pipes, charcoal, matches and personal items.

The spectacular burr grain of the zelkova wood is beautifully displayed across every surface, while the original white metal corner mounts, handles and escutcheons provide an elegant contrast. Compact yet highly functional, this remarkable cabinet would make a fascinating collector's piece, a distinctive jewellery cabinet or an eye-catching storage chest for a desk or sideboard.

Beautifully preserved with an exceptional patina, this is a fine example of the ingenuity and craftsmanship that characterises Japanese furniture of the Meiji era.

Origin: Japan
Date: Late Meiji Period (1868–1912)
Materials: Burr zelkova (keyaki) with copper ash compartment and white metal mounts
Features: Original dragon-decorated copper ash compartment, six external drawers, cupboard with two internal drawers, concealed upper drawer, original white metal fittings and spectacular burr wood grain
Condition: Checked and restored in our Wiltshire workshops by trained restorers. Excellent antique condition with minor age-related wear and a rich, original patina consistent with age and use. Lockbox door has minor bowing visible in images.
Dimensions: W35 x D20 x H31 cm
Weight: 4.75kg

References:

Further reading on tabako-bon can be found on page 141 of Traditional Japanese Furniture - A Definitive Guide by Kazuko Koizumi (Fig 32).

Decorative Japanese Art