Antique Japanese Haribako Sewing Box, 1912 - 1926 (Taisho) | SKU: 26M-764

Japanese Haribako Sewing Box | Antique Jewelry Box & Desktop Organizer, 1912-1926 (Taisho), SKU 26M-764

A boldly grained Taisho-era haribako with a hinged lid, multiple drawers, and dramatically figured hardwood -- a rare handcrafted Japanese antique in exceptional condition.

A haribako is a traditional Japanese sewing box used to store needles, thread, scissors, and other needlework essentials. Dating to the Taisho period (1912-1926), this finely crafted example showcases a dramatic swirling grain pattern characteristic of kaki (persimmon) or a similarly figured Japanese hardwood -- each panel displaying rich amber and deep brown tones that deepen with age. The case is constructed with a hinged lift-top lid revealing a shallow interior tray with a small dividing compartment, ideal for keeping delicate notions close at hand. Below, multiple pull-out drawers -- including two narrower side-by-side drawers, a taller single compartment with a round knob pull, and a wide full-width drawer at the base -- offer layered, well-proportioned storage. Each drawer front is fitted with a cast metal bail handle with a decorative shell motif, consistent with the refined hardware taste of Taisho-era Japanese craft. The sides and structure are finished in a plainer straight-grained hardwood, while the front panels display the most figured material -- a deliberate choice that reflects the Japanese woodworking tradition of showcasing the most beautiful cuts where they will be most admired. This is a handcrafted Japanese antique of considerable character, and a genuine collector-quality piece of vintage Japanese craft.

In a modern home, this haribako transitions effortlessly from its original purpose into everyday decorative use. Its compact footprint and multiple compartments make it a beautiful jewelry box for a bedroom dresser -- rings, earrings, bracelets, and watches sorted neatly across the layered drawers. On a home office desk it functions as a stylish desk organizer for stationery, USB drives, and small tools, bringing a wabi-sabi aesthetic to any workspace. It also makes a striking living room accent piece displayed on a bookshelf or side table, where the extraordinary wood grain can be fully appreciated. For anyone drawn to Japandi style interiors or Japanese antique furniture, this piece offers both beauty and function. It would make a thoughtful and unique gift for collectors, for Japanophiles, or as a housewarming gift for anyone who appreciates handmade objects with a story.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1912-1926 (Taisho)
• Material: Boldly figured hardwood, possibly kaki (persimmon), with cast metal hardware; metal hinges on lid
• Use: Haribako -- traditional Japanese sewing and needlework box
• Modern Use: Jewelry box for bedroom dresser; desktop organizer for home office storage; decorative accent for living room or Japandi-style shelving
• Features: Hinged lift-top lid with interior tray and divider compartment; multiple pull-out drawers in an asymmetric layout including a wide full-width base drawer; each drawer fitted with a cast metal bail handle with shell motif; one taller compartment with round knob pull; dramatic swirling wood grain across all front panels; metal butterfly hinges on lid top
• Dimensions: 11 1/2"W x 7"D x 9"H
• Condition: Excellent

A stunning piece of Japanese antique furniture -- this Taisho haribako brings over a century of handcrafted beauty and quiet elegance to 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.