Early 20thCentury Japanese Scholars/Scribes lacquered travelling desk, similar designs also used by merchants to conduct trade whilst travelling.
Traditional Japanese Cherry Blossom scene and patterns depicted on several surfaces including birds and Japanese provincial buildings. This extends to internal drawer fronts. Original ornate brass ironmongery and locks in, good condition throughout. 
Incredibly similar to European Campaign furniture, this clever Japanese design quickly converts from compact table top Tansu chest to floor level desk (to be used in kneeling position).
The desk can be quickly converted back to the compact Tansu. The two chests interlock by inserting the two locators on the internal flank and sliding the two parts together. The slim locking bar is placed in the centre top to hold the two halves together and the table surface simply rests on the top. 
All parts are present. It is quite rare to find one of these complete with its locking bar, table top and original key.
Some minor lacquer loss to wear points, minor indentations consistent with age, the lustre of the lacquer varies according to sun exposure over the years, cleaned and polished ready for immediate use - please refer to high resolution images for condition. 
This item could be a great storage solution for collectors of Netsuke, Tsuba, etc. 
Closed cube Tansu dimensions- 36.5cm wide, 25cm deep, 28cm tall.
Open desk dimensions - 71cm wide, 25cm deep, 27cm tall. Knee space 34cm wide, 26cm tall.
£330.00 including postage to U.K. zone 1 addresses.
For postage costs to addresses outside U.K. zone1 and overseas postage please enquire prior to placing your  order thank you.
The other items shown in our photographs are not included in the sale.