Antique Japanese Kaki Wood Jubako Four-Tier Stacking Box with Vermilion Lacquer Interior, Meiji Era (1892) | SKU: 26M-659

Antique Japanese Kaki Wood Jubako Four-Tier Stacking Box with Vermilion Lacquer Interior, Meiji Era (1892) | SKU: 26M-659

A rare four-tier kaki wood jubako with vermilion lacquer interior, documented to the Kimura family in Meiji 25 (1892)

A jubako is a traditional Japanese set of stacking lacquered boxes used to present celebratory foods -- most famously osechi ryori at New Year -- with each tier holding a different course or delicacy. This exceptional example is crafted from kaki (persimmon) wood, as confirmed by the tomobako storage box inscription, which reads in part "kaki, uchi shu, shichi-sun, yoju, ichi-kumi" -- meaning persimmon wood, inner vermilion, seven-sun size, four tiers, one complete set. The bold, sweeping dark grain of kaki is immediately striking on all exterior panels, sealed beneath a clear lacquer finish that deepens its dramatic figure. Each tier is precisely edged in black lacquer, while the interior glows in a rich nakazome vermilion -- a color long associated with auspiciousness and celebration in Japanese craft. A second inscription on the tomobako lid records "Meiji niju-go nen san-gatsu shin-cho, Kimura-ke" -- newly acquired in March of Meiji 25 (1892) by the Kimura family -- giving this set a remarkably well-documented provenance. As Japanese antique lacquerware with over 130 years of history, this jubako stands as a genuine collector's piece.

Today this striking jubako set translates beautifully into a modern home as a sculptural living room accent or display object. Stacked on a sideboard or console, the rippling kaki grain and vermilion interior make it as visually compelling as any decorative sculpture -- a natural fit for Japandi style or wabi-sabi aesthetic interiors. Use individual tiers as jewelry trays or keepsake organizers on a bedroom dresser, or arrange them partially open to display small treasures, stones, or curated objects. The fitted tomobako storage box adds a layer of collector authenticity that makes this a genuinely unique gift for Japanophiles or anyone who appreciates handcrafted Japanese antiques with a true provenance story.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1868-1911 (Meiji) -- tomobako inscription documents acquisition in Meiji 25, March 1892
• Material: Kaki (persimmon) wood exterior with clear lacquer finish; black lacquer corner and edge trim; nakazome vermilion lacquer interior; fitted wooden tomobako storage box
• Use: Traditional stacking food presentation boxes (jubako) used for celebratory and seasonal meals
• Modern Use: Decorative display object or living room accent; individual tiers used as jewelry trays or keepsake organizers; curio display in a Japandi or wabi-sabi styled interior
• Features: Four stackable square tiers with fitted lid; dramatically figured kaki grain panels; black lacquer edging throughout; deep vermilion lacquer interior to each tier; original fitted tomobako with dual ink inscriptions documenting material, size, tier count, acquisition date, and family provenance (Kimura-ke, Meiji 25)
• Dimensions: 9"W x 8 1/2"D x 10 1/2"H
• Condition: Excellent

A rare and fully documented piece of Japanese antique lacquerware -- over 130 years old and still breathtaking -- that brings history, craftsmanship, and bold natural beauty 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 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.