Vintage Japanese Ju Bako Tiered Food Box, 1946 - 1965 (Mid Showa) | SKU: 26M-089

Japanese Ju-bako Tiered Food Box | Lacquerware Bento Box & Decorative Display, 1946-1965 (Mid Showa), SKU 26M-089

A striking mid-century lacquerware set with bold ume blossom maki-e decoration and vivid red interiors -- complete with stand and tray.

A ju-bako is a traditional Japanese tiered food box used to serve celebratory meals, most famously the osechi ryori feast prepared for the New Year. This handsome vintage example features multiple stacking tiers finished in deep black lacquer with warm red-lacquered interiors, creating a dramatic two-tone contrast prized in Japanese antique lacquerware. The exterior is adorned with elegant maki-e decoration -- a painted scene of ume (plum) blossoms and branches rendered in gold and soft earth tones across all tiers, the imagery flowing seamlessly from one layer to the next when stacked. A looped carry handle locks the tiers together for transport, while a separate footed stand and a flat presentation tray are included, completing what was clearly a well-appointed household set. Crafted in the early post-war period, this piece reflects the enduring appeal of classical Japanese craft traditions even as Japan was rapidly modernizing -- a fine example of vintage Japanese lacquerware from the Mid Showa era.

Today this ju-bako set is as beautiful on display as it once was at the table. Stacked and placed on its stand, it makes a stunning living room accent or dining room centerpiece in a Japandi-style or wabi-sabi aesthetic interior. The individual tiers, with their vivid red interiors, can be used as elegant catchall trays on a console table, vanity, or home office desk -- corralling jewelry, keys, stationery, or small collectibles in style. The complete set also makes an exceptional gift for collectors of Japanese antiques or as a unique housewarming gift for anyone who appreciates handcrafted Japanese decorative objects. Whether displayed as a sculptural stack or spread open to reveal those glowing interiors, this piece commands attention in any room.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1946-1965 (Mid Showa)
• Material: Wood with black and red lacquer finish; maki-e painted decoration in gold
• Use: Traditional tiered food box (ju-bako) used for serving celebratory or New Year osechi ryori meals
• Modern Use: Decorative living room or dining room display on included stand; individual tiers as vanity or desk organizer trays; unique gift for collectors of Japanese antiques
• Features: Multiple stacking tiers with fitted carry handle; deep black lacquer exterior with vivid red lacquer interiors; continuous maki-e ume blossom and branch motif in gold across all tiers; includes separate footed stand and flat presentation tray
• Dimensions: 8"W x 8"D x 10"H
• Condition: Excellent

A quintessential piece of Japanese antique lacquerware -- rich in symbolism, craftsmanship, and mid-century character -- ready to bring warmth and elegance to 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.