Antique Japanese Jubako tiered food box set with carry frame and storage case, Meiji 1868-1911 | SKU: 26J-0666

Antique Japanese Jubako tiered food box set with carry frame and storage case, Meiji 1868-1911 | SKU: 26J-0666

A rare complete antique jubako set -- iron tiers, detachable carry frame, and fitted wooden storage case -- carrying the quiet dignity of Meiji-era craftsmanship.

A jubako is a traditional Japanese tiered food box used to carry and present layered servings of festive or travel meals, most commonly associated with o-sechi ryori (New Year cuisine) and hanami picnics. This exceptional antique example is crafted from iron with brass-toned rim edging running the perimeter of each tier, lending a refined contrast to the gunmetal-grey body. The stacked tiers seat neatly into one another and rest within a detachable iron carry frame fitted with a cloud-shaped brass top handle -- a motif drawn from classical Japanese decorative vocabulary. The scalloped apron base tray, integral to the carry frame, echoes the wave-form detailing seen throughout handcrafted Japanese antique metalwork of the Meiji period. Age-appropriate patina, surface oxidation, and verdigris on the brass fittings speak to well over a century of authentic use.

Today this jubako set offers striking potential as a living room accent or wabi-sabi aesthetic display piece -- arranged assembled on a sideboard or shelf, its aged iron tones and brass trim create an immediate focal point. The individual tiers can serve as small desktop organizers or trinket trays in a home office, while the wooden storage case -- finished in deep red-toned lacquer with a sliding front panel and matching scalloped apron -- stands beautifully on its own as a compact display cabinet or collector's storage box. A truly unique gift for Japanophiles, antique collectors, or anyone who appreciates the intersection of form and function in Japanese antique furniture.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Meiji, 1868-1911
• Material: Iron body with brass-toned rim edging; detachable iron carry frame with brass fittings; separate red-toned lacquered wood storage case
• Use: Tiered food carrier for festive meals, picnics, and formal dining presentations
• Modern Use: Living room or shelf display accent; desktop organizer or trinket tray (individual tiers); standalone decorative cabinet (wooden storage case)
• Features: Multiple stackable iron tiers with brass-edged rims; cloud-form brass top handle with verdigris patina; detachable flat-bar carry frame with scalloped base tray; one tier with interior divider visible; fitted red-lacquered wood storage case with sliding front panel and scalloped apron; complete set
• Dimensions: 5 1/4"W x 4 3/4"D x 8"H
• Condition: Good antique condition -- surface oxidation, rust spotting, and patina consistent with age; all components present and functional

A complete and remarkably intact piece of Japanese antique metalwork that brings the quiet beauty of Meiji-era craftsmanship into any modern home.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All antique items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.