Vintage Japanese Lacquerware, 1966 - 1989 (Late Showa) | SKU: 26M-065 (26M-065-1)

Japanese Urushi Lacquerware Lidded Box | Vintage Jewelry Box & Decorative Accent, 1966-1989 (Late Showa), SKU 26M-065-1

A boldly sculptural urushi lacquer box in classic red and black, adorned with hand-painted autumn leaves in the Japanese craft tradition.

A lacquerware lidded box, known in Japan as a nurimono or urushi-bako, is a vessel finished with multiple layers of urushi (natural lacquer) applied over a wooden core -- a craft practiced in Japan for over a thousand years. This late Showa example follows the most beloved Japanese lacquer palette: a deep vermilion body finished in brilliant red urushi, paired with a glossy black lid decorated with hand-painted autumn leaves in warm red, amber, and green. The lobed, pumpkin-shaped silhouette and compact knob handle give the piece a lively, sculptural quality that distinguishes it from plainer export ware. The interior is finished in smooth black lacquer throughout. This is a fine example of handcrafted Japanese lacquerware produced during a period when regional lacquer workshops were still maintaining traditional urushi techniques alongside more modern production methods.

In today's home, this striking urushi-bako makes an effortlessly elegant jewelry box on a vanity or bedroom dresser -- its shallow, wide interior is ideal for rings, earrings, and small keepsakes. It also works beautifully as a living room accent piece, displayed on a coffee table or shelf to anchor a Japandi style or wabi-sabi aesthetic arrangement. The bold red-and-black color story pairs naturally with minimalist decor, dried botanical displays, or ceramic collections. A truly unique gift for collectors, Japanophiles, or anyone who appreciates the quiet luxury of Japanese antique craft.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Wood core with urushi (natural lacquer) finish; hand-painted lacquer decoration on lid
• Use: Lidded container for confections, small keepsakes, or ceremonial use
• Modern Use: Jewelry box or ring dish on a vanity; decorative accent on a coffee table or bookshelf; unique gift for collectors or Japanophiles
• Features: Lobed pumpkin-shaped body in vivid red urushi; fitted black lacquer lid with scalloped edge and cylindrical knob; hand-painted autumn leaf motif in red, amber, and green on lid; smooth black lacquer interior; faceted base
• Dimensions: 7"W x 7"D x 3"H
• Condition: Excellent

A timeless piece of Japanese antique lacquerware that brings warmth, color, and centuries of craft tradition 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 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.