Vintage Japanese Lacquer Jubako Stacking Box Set with Gold Maki-e Pine and Crane Decoration, Early Showa 1927-1945 | SKU: 26M-578

Vintage Japanese Lacquer Jubako Stacking Box Set with Gold Maki-e Pine and Crane Decoration, Early Showa 1927-1945 | SKU: 26M-578

A magnificent set of lacquered jubako boxes adorned with finely detailed gold maki-e pine and crane motifs -- a rare survivor of early Showa ceremonial craft.

A jubako is a traditional Japanese stacking box set used to serve and present festive foods, most notably during New Year celebrations (oshogatsu) and other auspicious occasions. Each tier of the jubako held a different category of celebratory dish, making the full stacked set a centerpiece of seasonal ritual and hospitality. This exceptional example dates to the early Showa period (1927--1945) and showcases the finest in vintage Japanese lacquerware craft. The exterior of every tier is finished in a deep, lustrous black lacquer and decorated with an elaborate gold maki-e composition -- a sprawling windswept pine rendered in exquisite line work, accompanied by soaring cranes and a classical arched bridge landscape. The design flows seamlessly across all tiers when stacked, forming a single panoramic scene of auspicious symbolism. Interiors are finished in a bold vermilion red lacquer, a classic pairing in Japanese vintage lacquerware. The set retains its original wood storage case -- a plain, practical surround that houses all tiers neatly for display or storage.

In a modern home, this striking jubako set works beautifully as a living room accent or display object on a console table, sideboard, or shelf -- the stacked form and gold-on-black decoration make it a natural focal point in Japandi style or wabi-sabi aesthetic interiors. Individual tiers can be used as desktop organizers, jewelry trays, or keepsake boxes, while the full stacked set styled with greenery or flowers becomes a dramatic entryway statement piece. This is also a remarkable gift for collectors of Japanese vintage lacquerware or a truly unique housewarming gift for anyone who appreciates handcrafted Japanese art objects.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927-1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Wood with black urushi lacquer exterior, vermilion lacquer interior, gold maki-e decoration; plain wood storage case
• Use: Jubako -- stacking boxes for presenting celebratory and ceremonial foods at festivals and New Year gatherings
• Modern Use: Living room or entryway decorative accent; desktop or vanity organizer with individual tiers used as jewelry or keepsake trays; striking display object in Japandi or wabi-sabi styled interiors
• Features: Multiple stacking tiers forming a continuous panoramic gold maki-e landscape of pine, cranes, and a bridge; deep gloss black lacquer exterior; vivid red lacquer interior; original plain wood storage case with sliding front panel; auspicious motifs consistent with formal ceremonial use
• Dimensions: 9 1/2"W x 9 1/2"D x 16 1/2"H
• Condition: Excellent

A breathtaking example of vintage Japanese lacquerware -- the gold maki-e jubako brings the timeless elegance of Japanese vintage craft 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 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.