Antique Japanese Jubako Tiered Food Box - 1900s Meiji Era (25D-488)

Antique Japanese Jubako Tiered Food Box (SKU 25D-488)

Finely lacquered jubako with seasonal floral maki-e and original tomobako storage case.

This elegant antique Japanese tiered food box, or jubako, is finished in deep black urushi lacquer and richly decorated in gold and colored maki-e. Each side is painted with a different seasonal motif—chrysanthemum, bamboo, plum blossom and autumn grasses—symbolizing longevity, resilience and renewal, and creating a continuous landscape as the tiers are stacked.

Gently waisted sides, raised bracket feet and a slightly domed lid give the piece a refined architectural presence, while the removable interior tray and cut-out handle detail speak to its original role in presenting festive foods for New Year and celebratory gatherings. Complete with its fitted wooden tomobako storage box, this jubako is both a functional serving piece and a striking example of Meiji-period lacquer artistry for display.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Meiji period (late 19th–early 20th century)
• Material: Wood with black urushi lacquer and gold maki-e
• Use: Stacking food box (jubako) for osechi, kaiseki or decorative storage
• Features: Multi-tier construction with raised base, seasonal floral and foliage maki-e, removable inner tray with cut-out handle motif, original wooden tomobako storage case
• Dimensions: 6 1/2"W x 6 1/2"D x 8 3/4"H
• Condition: Excellent antique condition with minor wear consistent with age and use

A refined choice for collectors of Japanese lacquer, bringing the quiet luxury of Meiji-era celebration to any interior.

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 vintage and 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.