Vintage Japanese Haribako Sewing Box, 1927 - 1945 (Early Showa) | SKU: 26M-924

Japanese Haribako Sewing Box | Vintage Jewelry Box & Desktop Organizer, 1927-1945 (Early Showa), SKU 26M-924

A stunning burl-veneered haribako with a hinged lid compartment and multiple graduated drawers -- handcrafted Japanese antique storage at its finest.

A haribako is a traditional Japanese sewing box used by women to store needles, thread, thimbles, and other needlework tools. This exceptional example dates to the Early Showa period and stands apart from ordinary haribako thanks to its lavish exterior -- every surface wrapped in richly swirling burl veneer, most likely tochi (horse chestnut) or a similar figured Japanese hardwood, prized for its dense, flame-like patterning. The construction follows the classic haribako format: a hinged lift-top compartment for frequently reached items sits above a tiered arrangement of pull-out drawers, each fitted with a simple brass bar pull. The drawer interiors are finished in smooth, unadorned wood, keeping the craftsman's focus squarely on practical storage. The brass ring lifts set into the lid add a refined functional detail consistent with quality Japanese antique furniture of the interwar period.

Today this handcrafted Japanese haribako translates beautifully into a range of modern roles. Its generous capacity and striking burl exterior make it an eye-catching jewelry box or vanity organizer on a bedroom dresser -- each drawer perfectly sized for rings, bracelets, and small accessories. Placed on a home office desk it serves as a refined desktop organizer for stationery, USB drives, and small tools, lending wabi-sabi warmth to a minimalist decor scheme. It also works wonderfully as a Japandi-style living room accent piece -- displayed on a credenza or side table and used to corral remote controls, candles, or keepsakes. A truly unique housewarming gift or collector's treasure for anyone who appreciates vintage Japanese craft.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927-1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Figured burl veneer over solid wood construction, possibly tochi (horse chestnut) or similar Japanese hardwood; brass bar pulls and metal ring lifts
• Use: Haribako -- traditional Japanese sewing and needlework storage box
• Modern Use: Jewelry box or vanity organizer; desktop organizer for home office storage; decorative living room accent in Japandi or wabi-sabi style
• Features: Hinged lift-top compartment with brass ring pulls; multiple graduated pull-out drawers in a stepped layout, each fitted with a brass bar pull; richly figured burl veneer covers all exterior surfaces; plain smooth wood drawer interiors; low plinth base
• Dimensions: 12"W x 7"D x 9"H
• Condition: Excellent

A rare and beautiful piece of Japanese antique furniture -- the extraordinary burl veneer and thoughtful multi-drawer design make this haribako a collector's statement in 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.