Vintage Japanese Haribako Sewing Chest, Early Showa (1927-1945) | SKU: 26M-777-1

Vintage Japanese Haribako Sewing Chest, Early Showa (1927-1945) | SKU: 26M-777-1

A beautifully crafted vintage Japanese haribako -- a multi-drawer sewing chest with a hinged lid compartment -- finished in deep lacquered hardwood with original brass bar pulls.

A haribako is a traditional Japanese sewing box used to store needles, thread, scissors, and other needlework essentials. This handsome example, dating to the Early Showa period (1927--1945), is a fine piece of vintage Japanese craft built from a richly toned hardwood finished in a deep reddish-lacquer. The chest features a hinged lift-top lid that opens to reveal a shallow divided compartment -- ideal for keeping flat items neatly separated -- along with a removable inner tray. Below, multiple pull-out drawers are arranged in a tiered layout combining wider full-width drawers with a column of smaller drawers to the right, offering well-organized storage at a glance. Each drawer slides smoothly on hand-fitted wooden runners and is fitted with a cast metal bar pull in a restrained arched form typical of the era. The clean, boxy silhouette and warm lacquered finish reflect the transitional aesthetic of Early Showa Japan, when traditional tansu-style construction began to absorb subtle Western influences.

Today this vintage haribako translates effortlessly into modern interiors. Set on a dresser or vanity, it becomes a striking jewelry box and accessory organizer -- rings and earrings in the small drawers, scarves or keepsakes in the deep lower pull-out, and flat trinkets tucked into the hinged lid tray. On a home office desk it works beautifully as a desktop organizer for stationery, craft supplies, or small tech accessories, lending a wabi-sabi aesthetic to an otherwise utilitarian workspace. It also makes a memorable housewarming gift or gift for collectors who appreciate handcrafted Japanese vintage furniture with genuine age and patina.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927-1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Hardwood body with deep reddish lacquer finish; cast metal bar pulls; lighter unfinished wood interior and removable tray
• Use: Traditional Japanese haribako -- a multi-compartment sewing and needlework storage chest
• Modern Use: Jewelry box and vanity organizer; desktop stationery or craft supply storage; decorative living room or bedroom accent
• Features: Hinged lift-top lid opening to a divided shallow compartment with removable inner tray; multiple graduated pull-out drawers in a tiered layout combining full-width and smaller side drawers; each drawer fitted with a cast metal arched bar pull; smooth hand-fitted wooden runners; plinth base
• Dimensions: 13"W x 8"D x 10"H
• Condition: Good vintage condition -- consistent with age; light surface scratches and wear to lacquer throughout; drawers slide smoothly; all hardware intact

A warm and wonderfully useful piece of vintage Japanese craft -- this haribako brings the quiet elegance of Early Showa 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 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.