Antique Japanese Haribako Sewing Box, 1927 - 1945 (Early Showa) | SKU: 26M-965

Japanese Haribako Sewing Box | Antique Jewelry Box & Desktop Organizer, 1927-1945 (Early Showa), SKU 26M-965

A richly lacquered Early Showa haribako with a hinged lid compartment, multiple pull-out drawers, and a small side door -- a handcrafted Japanese antique brimming with functional charm.

A haribako is a traditional Japanese sewing box used by women to store needles, thread, thimbles, and other needlework essentials close at hand. This example, dating to the Early Showa period (1927--1945), is a fine specimen of handcrafted Japanese craft from an era when domestic sewing was a daily household practice. The exterior is finished in a deep oxblood red lacquer applied over a softwood body -- likely sugi (cryptomeria) or a similar domestic timber -- producing a warm, almost burgundy tone that has mellowed beautifully with age. The front face is arranged with a practical mix of graduated pull-out drawers fitted with oval brass bar pulls, alongside a smaller side compartment secured with a brass toggle latch. The hinged lid at the top reveals a divided interior tray with multiple sections, ideal for organizing small items, and the natural unfinished wood interior contrasts attractively with the lacquered exterior.

Today, this antique haribako translates effortlessly into modern living as a stylish jewelry box or bedroom decor accent -- its divided lid tray is perfectly sized for rings, earrings, and small keepsakes, while the pull-out drawers offer tidy storage for cosmetics, hair accessories, or stationery. Placed on a vanity or dresser, it brings an instant wabi-sabi aesthetic and the quiet warmth of Japandi style to any bedroom or home office. It also makes a thoughtful and unique gift for collectors, Japanophiles, or anyone who appreciates handcrafted Japanese antiques with genuine history.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927-1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Softwood body (likely sugi/cryptomeria or similar domestic timber) with deep oxblood red lacquer finish; brass hardware
• Use: Haribako -- traditional Japanese sewing box for storing needles, thread, and needlework tools
• Modern Use: Jewelry box or vanity organizer; desktop stationery and small-items storage; decorative bedroom or home office accent
• Features: Hinged lift-top lid opening to a divided interior tray; multiple graduated pull-out drawers each fitted with an oval brass bar pull; small side compartment with a brass toggle latch; raised base plinth; natural unfinished wood drawer interiors; aged patina throughout
• Dimensions: 13"W x 9"D x 10"H
• Condition: Good antique condition -- surface wear, light scratches, and minor lacquer losses consistent with age and use; all drawers slide smoothly; hardware intact

A timeless piece of Japanese antique craft that brings the quiet elegance of Early Showa daily life 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.