This Mizuya da du (水屋箪笥) is a traditional Japanese kitchen cabinet, composed of two stacked elements. Made entirely of Hinoki (Japanese cypress) and Sugi (cedar), it illustrates the careful craftsmanship of domestic furniture from the end of the Meiji period (circa 1880-1900).

The upper part presents an organization characteristic of kitchen furniture in Japan:

– four solid sliding panels in the upper part,

– two sliding panels with openwork crosspieces.

– then a row of four drawers with wrought iron handles.

The lower section offers an uncompartmentalized storage area, closed by two wide sliding panels with vertical slats, typical of mizuya designed for dishes, jars and cooking utensils.

Originally, this type of furniture occupied a central place in the Japanese kitchen, combining efficiency and aesthetics. The exclusive use of sliding doors allowed for smooth access without encroaching on space, an essential principle in Japanese interior design.

Today, this mizuya tansu fits easily into a contemporary interior. Its balanced structure and the natural warmth of its wood make it a versatile storage piece: sideboard, dresser, entryway unit, or bookcase. Its formal simplicity blends perfectly with a wabi-sabi or japandi style decor, where beauty lies in simplicity and function.

Species: Hinoki (Japanese cypress) and Sugi (Japanese cedar)

Period: Meiji period, late 19th century

Condition: Good general condition, old patina preserved with minimal traces of use.

Dimensions: H. 163.5 cm – L. 118 cm – D. 40.5 cm