Antique Japanese Haribako Sewing Chest, Taisho period 1912-1926 | SKU: 26J-0818

Antique Japanese Haribako Sewing Chest, Taisho period 1912-1926 | SKU: 26J-0818

A compact Japanese haribako with a lidded upper compartment and four drawers, offering the practical charm and warm patina of everyday Taisho-period craftsmanship.

This small sewing chest is arranged in the classic haribako form, with a deep upper compartment accessed by a sliding lid and a bank of drawers below for organizing sewing implements and small household articles. The front is composed of one long upper drawer, two smaller middle drawers, and one wider lower drawer, each fitted with dark metal bail pulls. Recessed hand-hold openings on the sides emphasize its portable character, while the dark reddish-brown wood surface shows attractive age, wear, and handling marks that speak to long use. Its straightforward construction and functional layout make it an appealing example of antique Japanese domestic craftsmanship from the Taisho period (1912-1926).

Its modest scale makes it easy to place in a contemporary interior. It works well on a desk, shelf, or dressing table for organizing sewing tools, stationery, jewelry, threads, notions, or other small personal items. The simple rectilinear silhouette, aged wood tone, and understated hardware also make it a strong accent for wabi-sabi, folk craft, and Japandi-inspired spaces.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Taisho period, approximately 1912-1926
• Material: Wood with metal drawer pulls
• Use: Haribako sewing chest for storing sewing tools, thread, cloth accessories, and small personal items
• Modern Use: Organizer for jewelry, stationery, studio tools, sewing notions, or desk accessories
• Features: Sliding lid over upper compartment; four drawers in graduated arrangement; recessed side hand-hold openings; dark aged wood surface with visible wear and patina; metal bail pulls
• Dimensions: 12 1/4"W x 8"D x 11 1/4"H
• Condition: Good antique condition -- surface scratches, finish wear, and age-related patina consistent with long use; drawers and upper sliding lid present

A practical and handsome antique sewing chest, this Japanese haribako brings useful storage and time-softened character to the 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.