Antique Japanese Haribako Sewing Box, 1946 - 1965 (Mid Showa) | SKU: 26M-069

Japanese Haribako Sewing Box | Antique Jewelry Box & Bedroom Organizer, 1946-1965 (Mid Showa), SKU 26M-069

A handcrafted Japanese sewing chest adorned with delicate mother-of-pearl floral inlay -- a rare survivor of the Mid Showa era.

A haribako is a traditional Japanese sewing box used by women to store needles, thread, thimbles, and other needlework tools. This vintage Japanese craft piece is constructed from a boldly grained dark hardwood -- possibly kaki (persimmon) -- finished in a rich, deep brown lacquer with contrasting red-lacquered side panels. The exterior is embellished throughout with hand-applied mother-of-pearl inlay depicting classic Japanese botanical motifs: ume (plum blossom), kiku (chrysanthemum), bamboo, and birds in flight -- each scene rendered with a delicate, painterly touch characteristic of skilled Mid Showa artisanship. The hinged domed lid opens to reveal a divided interior tray fitted with removable compartments, ideal for storing small notions. Below, multiple pull-out drawers of varied sizes are arranged in a stepped layout, each fitted with a recessed metal bar pull and decorated with its own unique inlay scene. The interior drawer boxes show clean, light-toned secondary wood, and all drawers slide smoothly.

Today this handcrafted Japanese antique box is far too beautiful to keep hidden. On a bedroom dresser it makes an exceptional jewelry box -- the varied drawer sizes are perfect for rings, earrings, bracelets, and watches, while the lidded top tray holds everyday pieces within easy reach. It also shines as a desk organizer in a home office, corralling stationery, washi tape, and small tools with understated elegance. For collectors and Japanophiles, this piece brings authentic wabi-sabi aesthetic warmth to a Japandi-style interior, whether displayed on a console table, vanity, or open shelf. A truly unique housewarming gift or gift for collectors who appreciate fine vintage Japanese craft.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1946-1965 (Mid Showa)
• Material: Boldly grained dark hardwood, possibly kaki (persimmon), with red lacquer side panels; mother-of-pearl inlay decoration; light-toned secondary wood interiors; recessed metal bar pulls
• Use: Haribako -- traditional Japanese sewing and needlework storage box
• Modern Use: Jewelry box and bedroom organizer; home office desk storage; decorative accent for Japandi or wabi-sabi styled interiors
• Features: Hinged domed lid opening to a divided and removable interior tray; multiple pull-out drawers in a stepped asymmetric layout; hand-applied mother-of-pearl floral and bird inlay on each drawer face and lid panel; recessed metal bar pull on each drawer
• Dimensions: 12 1/2"W x 8"D x 10"H
• Condition: Good vintage condition consistent with age; all drawers functional with smooth action; minor surface wear to exterior finish; inlay intact throughout

A beautifully preserved piece of Japanese antique furniture that brings the quiet artistry of the Mid Showa era 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.