Antique Japanese Ju Bako Tiered Food Box, 1927 - 1945 (Early Showa) | SKU: 26M-042

Japanese Ju-bako Tiered Food Box | Vintage Serving Centerpiece & Trinket Organizer, 1927-1945 (Early Showa), SKU 26M-042

A rare ceramic ju-bako with cloud-shaped tiers, turquoise oribe-style glaze, and a vivid red lacquer carrying stand -- complete with original wood storage box.

A ju-bako is a traditional Japanese tiered food box used to present celebratory meals, most famously the layered osechi-ryori (New Year dishes) served during the holidays. Unlike the more common lacquerware ju-bako, this exceptional example is crafted entirely in ceramic, with each tier formed in a graceful cloud or flower silhouette -- a shape known as kikko or hanagata in Japanese decorative arts. The exterior is glazed in a striking turquoise ground with dripped olive-amber brushwork divided by fine black vertical lines, a palette strongly reminiscent of oribe-style stoneware popular in the early 20th century. The interior of each tier is finished in clean ivory white, and the fitted lid carries a sculpted knob detail with radiating incised lines. All tiers nest securely within a boldly lacquered red carrier fitted with a tall arched handle and a circular base tray -- the red-black lacquer contrast making the turquoise ceramic pop dramatically. The ensemble retains its original inscribed wood box, a hallmark of a purposefully gifted or collector-grade piece from the Early Showa period.

Today this handcrafted Japanese antique works beautifully far beyond the dining table. Displayed assembled on a sideboard or living room shelf, it functions as a bold sculptural accent that suits both Japandi style and eclectic maximalist interiors alike. The individual ceramic tiers can be separated and used as trinket dishes, jewelry holders, or small condiment bowls for an artfully set table -- a unique housewarming gift or gift for collectors of Japanese ceramics. The vivid red lacquer stand alone makes a striking decorative object, and the complete set styled together creates a conversation-starting centerpiece for any modern home.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927-1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Glazed ceramic tiers with turquoise and olive oribe-style glaze; red lacquer wood carrying stand and base tray; original wood storage box
• Use: Tiered celebratory food box (ju-bako), used for osechi-ryori and formal meal presentation
• Modern Use: Living room decorative centerpiece; jewelry and trinket organizer; artisan serving set for small bites or condiments
• Features: Cloud or flower-silhouette (hanagata) ceramic tiers; turquoise glaze with dripped amber brushwork and incised vertical black lines; ivory white glazed interiors; sculpted lid with radiating detail; red lacquer arched-handle carrier with circular base tray; original inscribed wood storage box included
• Dimensions: 6"W x 6"D x 9"H
• Condition: Excellent

A rare and striking piece of Japanese antique ceramic craft -- the vivid turquoise glaze and lacquer red carrier bring authentic Early Showa elegance to 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.