Antique Japanese Haribako Sewing Box, 1927 - 1945 (Early Showa) | SKU: 26M-556-3

Japanese Haribako Sewing Box | Antique Jewelry Box & Desktop Organizer, 1927-1945 (Early Showa), SKU 26M-556-3

A richly lacquered hardwood haribako with a hinged lid, removable tray, and multiple pull-out drawers -- a beautifully preserved example of handcrafted Japanese craft from the Early Showa period.

A haribako is a traditional Japanese sewing box used by women to organize needles, thread, thimbles, and other needlework essentials. This example, dating to the Early Showa period (1927--1945), is a substantial and well-constructed piece finished in a deep reddish-brown lacquer over a hardwood body. The exterior displays the warm patina of age, with the wood's natural grain visible beneath the lacquer. The hinged lift-top lid opens to reveal a fitted interior compartment, and a removable subdivided tray lifts out to expose a spacious well below -- a classic layered design that kept sewing supplies neatly separated and easy to access. Below the lid, multiple pull-out drawers of varying sizes are arranged in a stepped layout, each fitted with a cast metal oval pull. The lighter-toned wood interiors of the drawers and tray contrast beautifully with the dark lacquered exterior, reflecting the careful Japanese antique furniture tradition of pairing practical storage with understated elegance.

Today this haribako translates effortlessly into modern interiors. Repurposed as a jewelry box or vanity organizer, its graduated drawers and lidded tray compartments are ideal for rings, necklaces, and small accessories -- a stunning bedroom decor accent with genuine wabi-sabi character. Set on a home office desk, it serves equally well as a desktop organizer for stationery, keepsakes, or art supplies, lending a touch of Japandi style to any workspace. It also makes a distinctive entryway accent for storing small items like keys and cards. A one-of-a-kind housewarming gift or gift for collectors of vintage Japanese craft, this piece carries nearly a century of quiet history and craftsmanship.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927-1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Hardwood body with dark reddish-brown lacquer finish; lighter hardwood drawer interiors and removable tray; cast metal oval drawer pulls; brass hinge hardware
• Use: Haribako -- traditional Japanese sewing and needlework storage box
• Modern Use: Jewelry box and vanity organizer; desktop organizer for home office storage; entryway accent for small everyday items
• Features: Hinged lift-top lid with brass hinges; fitted interior well beneath lid; removable subdivided tray; multiple pull-out drawers in a stepped layout with smaller side drawers; each drawer fitted with a cast metal oval pull; rich lacquered exterior with natural aged patina
• Dimensions: 11 1/2"W x 7"D x9"H
• Condition: Good antique condition -- surface scratches and wear consistent with age and use; all drawers slide smoothly; structure solid throughout

A handcrafted piece of Japanese antique furniture steeped in domestic history -- equally at home as a jewelry box, desk organizer, or collectors display in any modern 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.