Sendai-tansu
WoodworkTohoku
Price range
¥50,000 ~ ¥500,000
Zelkova clothing chests from Miyagi with lacquered finish and iron fittings.
Sendai-tansu is a style of traditional wooden chest from Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, renowned for its sturdy zelkova (keyaki) wood construction and elaborate hand-forged iron hardware. Developed in the late Edo period under the patronage of the Date clan, each chest features richly grained wood finished with lacquer and fitted with ornate iron fittings in motifs of bamboo, plum blossoms, and other auspicious symbols. The combination of master joinery, lacquerwork, and metalwork makes Sendai-tansu a synthesis of three craft traditions in one piece.
At a Glance
- Craft Type
- woodwork
- Region
- Tohoku
- Materials
- Zelkova, Japanese lacquer, iron
- Designation
- national traditional
- Price Range
- ¥50000–¥500000
Materials
Zelkova, Japanese lacquer, iron
Techniques
Joinery, lacquering, iron fitting
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of craft is Sendai-tansu?
Sendai-tansu is a traditional Japanese woodwork craft.
What materials are used to make Sendai-tansu?
Sendai-tansu is made using Zelkova, Japanese lacquer, iron.
Is Sendai-tansu a designated traditional craft?
Yes, Sendai-tansu holds the National Traditional Craft designation.
Where does Sendai-tansu originate from?
Sendai-tansu originates from Tohoku, Japan.
What techniques are used to make Sendai-tansu?
The techniques used include: Joinery, lacquering, iron fitting.
How much does Sendai-tansu cost?
Sendai-tansu is typically priced between ¥50000 and ¥500000.
Is Sendai-tansu a good souvenir from Japan?
Sendai-tansu is a popular traditional Japanese craft that makes an excellent souvenir.
What makes Sendai-tansu unique?
Sendai-tansu is distinguished by its Joinery, lacquering, iron fitting techniques and Zelkova, Japanese lacquer, iron materials.
How is Sendai-tansu traditionally used?
Sendai-tansu is a traditional Japanese woodwork craft with both practical and decorative applications.