Antique Japanese Haribako Sewing Box, 1912 - 1926 (Taisho) | SKU: 26M-726-3

Japanese Haribako Sewing Box | Antique Jewelry Box & Desktop Organizer, 1912-1926 (Taisho), SKU 26M-726-3

A finely crafted Taisho-era haribako in boldly figured hardwood -- complete with a hinged lid compartment, multiple pull-out drawers, and its original small ruler.

A haribako is a traditional Japanese sewing box used by women to store needles, thread, thimbles, and other needlework tools. This exceptional example, dating to the Taisho period (1912-1926), showcases the refined domestic craftsmanship of early 20th-century Japan. The entire exterior -- front, sides, top, and drawer faces -- is clad in a richly swirling, flame-patterned hardwood veneer, most likely kaki (persimmon) or a similarly figured Japanese hardwood, displaying the deep amber and dark-chocolate tones prized by Taisho-era artisans. The construction is solid and precise, with well-fitted dovetail corners visible at the sides. A hinged lid opens to reveal a fitted interior tray with subdivided compartments -- ideal for small notions -- while multiple pull-out drawers below, fitted with gracefully curved brass bail pulls, offer generous layered storage. A small original wooden ruler slots neatly into a dedicated slot at the side of the lid, a charming and practical detail that speaks to the thoughtful design of vintage Japanese craft.

Today this handcrafted Japanese antique translates beautifully into a modern home. Its compact footprint and rich figure make it a standout jewelry box or vanity organizer on a bedroom dresser, keeping rings, earrings, and bracelets neatly sorted across its many compartments and drawers. On a home office desk it works equally well as a desktop organizer for stationery, small tools, or keepsakes. The warm, swirling grain and aged brass hardware also make it a striking standalone accent piece suited to Japandi style or wabi-sabi aesthetic interiors. A truly unique housewarming gift or gift for collectors of Japanese antique furniture who appreciate functional beauty.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1912-1926 (Taisho)
• Material: Boldly flame-figured hardwood, possibly kaki (persimmon); brass bail pulls; original wooden ruler included
• Use: Haribako -- traditional Japanese sewing and needlework storage box
• Modern Use: Jewelry box and vanity organizer; desktop storage for a home office; decorative accent piece in a Japandi or wabi-sabi styled interior
• Features: Hinged lift-top lid with subdivided interior tray; multiple pull-out drawers in a graduated asymmetric layout; each drawer fitted with a curved brass bail pull; recessed metal carry handles on lid top; original small wooden ruler in a dedicated side slot; dovetail corner joinery; flame-figured veneer on all exterior surfaces
• Dimensions: 13"W x 8"D x 10 1/2"H
• Condition: Very good antique condition; consistent with age and use; all drawers slide smoothly; original hardware intact

A rare and complete piece of Japanese antique furniture -- this Taisho haribako brings over a century of quiet craftsmanship and warm, figured beauty 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.