Vintage Japanese Ju Bako Tiered Food Box, 1946 - 1965 (Mid Showa) | SKU: 26M-650

Japanese Jubako Tiered Food Box | Vintage Lacquerware Display & Jewelry Organizer, 1946-1965 (Mid Showa), SKU 26M-650

A deep oxblood lacquer jubako with golden pine and crane motif -- stacked tiers revealing brilliant cinnabar interiors

A jubako is a traditional Japanese tiered food box, historically used to present celebratory meals during the New Year (oshogatsu) and other festive occasions. Each stackable tier held a different course -- from savory osechi dishes to sweet confections -- and the act of opening the boxes one by one was itself a ritual of seasonal joy. This Mid Showa example is finished in a rich oxblood lacquer and decorated across all tiers with a continuous gold maki-e-style motif depicting a gnarled pine tree and soaring crane, both classic auspicious symbols in Japanese antique craft representing longevity and good fortune. The design flows seamlessly from the bottommost tier up through the lid, creating a unified scenic composition when stacked. The interiors are lacquered in a vivid vermilion red -- a hallmark of fine Japanese lacquerware -- and the smooth, well-fitted tiers nest snugly together with a satisfying precision typical of quality postwar craftsmanship.

In a modern home, this handcrafted Japanese lacquerware set is as versatile as it is beautiful. Use the individual tiers as display trays for jewelry, hair accessories, or small keepsakes on a vanity or bedroom dresser -- a striking living room accent in a Japandi-style or wabi-sabi aesthetic interior. Stacked as a sculptural column on a sideboard or dining table, the set makes an elegant centerpiece or conversation piece. The jubako also makes a truly unique housewarming gift or gift for collectors and Japanophiles who appreciate the artistry of vintage Japanese craft. Whether used decoratively or functionally, this set brings a layered warmth and ceremonial beauty to any space.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1946-1965 (Mid Showa)
• Material: Wood core with lacquered finish; oxblood (dark red) exterior lacquer; vermilion red interior lacquer; gold maki-e-style pine and crane decoration
• Use: Tiered food presentation box used for festive and ceremonial meals, particularly osechi ryori (New Year cuisine)
• Modern Use: Jewelry and keepsake organizer on a vanity or dresser; sculptural living room accent or dining table centerpiece; decorative display tray set in a Japandi or minimalist decor setting
• Features: Multiple stackable tiers with fitted lid; continuous gold maki-e-style pine and crane motif wrapping all tiers; vivid cinnabar red lacquered interiors; rounded square form with softened corners; smooth high-gloss exterior finish
• Dimensions: 9"W x 9"D x 17"H
• Condition: Good vintage condition consistent with age and use; some wear to lacquer surface visible on exterior and base areas; all tiers present and functional

A luminous example of vintage Japanese lacquerware -- the jubako's golden pine and crane motif and jewel-bright interiors bring ceremonial elegance and wabi-sabi warmth 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.