Antique Japanese Haribako Sewing Box, 1927 - 1945 (Early Showa) | SKU: 26M-556-15

Japanese Haribako Sewing Box | Vintage Jewelry Box & Desktop Organizer, 1927-1945 (Early Showa), SKU 26M-556-15

A boldly lacquered haribako chest with a hinged lid compartment and multiple pull-out drawers -- a striking marriage of Art Deco sensibility and traditional Japanese craft.

A haribako is a traditional Japanese sewing box used to organize needles, thread, thimbles, and other needlework tools. During the Early Showa period, haribako evolved from simple wooden trays into substantial multi-drawer chests that reflected both the era's enthusiasm for Western design influences and the enduring Japanese appreciation for meticulous organization. This handcrafted Japanese antique exemplifies that transition beautifully: the exterior is finished in a deep, glossy bengara-red lacquer -- a rich iron-oxide red long associated with warmth and protection in Japanese craft tradition -- while the rounded corners, streamlined silhouette, and sleek metal bar pulls reveal a distinctly Art Deco character fashionable in 1930s Japan. The interior drawers are constructed from natural unfinished wood, lined in black, and arranged in a staggered layout combining wider full-width drawers with a column of smaller side drawers. A top-opening hinged lid reveals an additional shallow compartment lined in black fabric, ideal for storing long tools such as scissors or rulers. Carved side recesses serve as integrated carry handles -- a practical and elegant detail typical of quality Japanese vintage craft of the period.

Today this vintage haribako translates effortlessly into a wide range of modern living spaces. Its substantial size and multiple compartments make it an exceptional jewelry box and accessories organizer for the bedroom, keeping rings, bracelets, and watches neatly separated across dedicated drawers. It works equally well as a home office storage chest for stationery, craft supplies, or art materials -- a unique gift for collectors or anyone who appreciates Japandi style decor. The deep bengara-red lacquer finish adds a warm, lacquerware accent to any entryway console, dressing table, or living room sideboard, complementing both minimalist decor and mid-century modern interiors with equal ease.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927-1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Wood with bengara-red lacquer exterior finish; unfinished natural wood drawer interiors; black-lined interior surfaces; metal bar pulls
• Use: Haribako -- traditional Japanese sewing and needlework storage chest
• Modern Use: Jewelry box and accessories organizer; home office or craft supply storage; bedroom decor accent or dressing table chest
• Features: Hinged top-lid compartment lined in black fabric; multiple pull-out drawers in a mixed wide-and-narrow staggered layout; each drawer fitted with a sleek metal bar pull; rounded corners throughout; integrated carved side carry handles; glossy lacquer exterior in deep bengara-red
• Dimensions: 13"W x 8"D x 10"H
• Condition: Excellent

A rare and striking piece of Japanese antique craft -- this bengara-red haribako brings the warmth of Early Showa lacquerware and the elegance of Art Deco Japan 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.