The Uniqueness Of Japanese Cabinetry
My sister’s house is Asian inspired. She loves the fusion of different cultures in her home. Each piece of furniture or decoration that she has symbolizes the rich culture of each country in Asia. She has wall frames that were from India and Malaysia. A set of solid brass Lampshades and jars that were made in the Philippines adorned both of her end tables. Her rectangular shaped and low coffee table that is made of hardwood with big scented candles and books on top are patterned after the Zen lifestyle of Japan.
We had a talk one day about her plans for adding cabinets but still maintaining the elements of the Asian theme. She mentioned about the Japanese Tansu cabinetry as her main focus because of its uniqueness. So, what exactly characterizes this form of cabinetry and how is it different from the others?
Tansu cabinetry started during the Genroku era of the Edo period (1688-1704). Tansu is a combination of 2 Japanese characters that provided differing roles to objects. Tan is the storage of food while Su is for carrying the firewood. These cabinets were specifically built for mobile under the strict sumptuary laws instilled at this period. Hence, it’s birth.
Characteristics of the Tansu cabinetry:
• It has minimalistic features as seen in its straight lines and limited details.
• It is flexible enough to transport from one area to another.
• It can be useful in a lot of ways.
• The knobs and the edges are of heavy iron, which is, by the way, an indication of prominence and nobility in the family. The iron gives the cabinets are more defined look.
• This cabinetry lies flat on the floor and has no legs
• The wood used for this furniture is soft and hardwoods such as elm, chestnut, pine, cedar, paulownia and cypress that are known for its rich texture.
• The cabinets are usually coated with a lacquered finish that is obviously shown in its sleek appearance.
A form of Tansu cabinetry that is very popular for its storage solutions is the Staircase or the Kaidan Tansu. It is a fully functional staircase that can be used to climb a double deck bed or the loft, or as a ladder to get the things that are far beyond your reach, and at the same time, serves as your storage.
Indeed, Japanese cabinetry will add beauty and elegance to your home. It’s unique and distinctive features will perfectly blend with your Asian themed house.
We had a talk one day about her plans for adding cabinets but still maintaining the elements of the Asian theme. She mentioned about the Japanese Tansu cabinetry as her main focus because of its uniqueness. So, what exactly characterizes this form of cabinetry and how is it different from the others?
Tansu cabinetry started during the Genroku era of the Edo period (1688-1704). Tansu is a combination of 2 Japanese characters that provided differing roles to objects. Tan is the storage of food while Su is for carrying the firewood. These cabinets were specifically built for mobile under the strict sumptuary laws instilled at this period. Hence, it’s birth.
Characteristics of the Tansu cabinetry:
• It has minimalistic features as seen in its straight lines and limited details.
• It is flexible enough to transport from one area to another.
• It can be useful in a lot of ways.
• The knobs and the edges are of heavy iron, which is, by the way, an indication of prominence and nobility in the family. The iron gives the cabinets are more defined look.
• This cabinetry lies flat on the floor and has no legs
• The wood used for this furniture is soft and hardwoods such as elm, chestnut, pine, cedar, paulownia and cypress that are known for its rich texture.
• The cabinets are usually coated with a lacquered finish that is obviously shown in its sleek appearance.
A form of Tansu cabinetry that is very popular for its storage solutions is the Staircase or the Kaidan Tansu. It is a fully functional staircase that can be used to climb a double deck bed or the loft, or as a ladder to get the things that are far beyond your reach, and at the same time, serves as your storage.
Indeed, Japanese cabinetry will add beauty and elegance to your home. It’s unique and distinctive features will perfectly blend with your Asian themed house.
