Vintage Japanese Haribako Drawer, 1946 - 1965 (Mid Showa) | SKU: 26M-555-6

Japanese Haribako Small Chest | Vintage Jewelry Box & Bedroom Organizer, 1990-2018 (Heisei), SKU 26M-555-6

A compact Heisei Sewing chest in richly figured hardwood -- showcasing the enduring artistry of handcrafted Japanese antique furniture.

A sewing box is a compact Japanese storage chest, smaller in scale than a full tansu but equal in craftsmanship and character. This exceptional example, dating to the Heisei period (1990-2018), is constructed from a boldly grained hardwood, possibly keyaki (zelkova), its warm amber-red surface polished to a smooth, lustrous finish that highlights the wood's natural figure beautifully. The front face presents multiple hikidashi (pull-out drawers) in an asymmetric stepped layout -- a hallmark of traditional Japanese cabinetmaking -- each framed within a carved, recessed panel with gently rounded corners. Slender cast metal bar pulls, lacquered in dark tones, complement the rich wood tones without overpowering them. A hinged lid at the top opens to reveal a fitted interior compartment with removable wood trays -- typical of the kind of personal storage once used for sewing tools, keepsakes. Carved carry-through handles on each side panel and visible corner joinery on the base speak to the quality of construction throughout.

Today this Sewing box transitions effortlessly into a modern home as a striking bedroom decor accent or bedside organizer -- its tiered drawers and lidded top tray ideal for storing jewelry, watches, and small keepsakes. On a vanity or dressing table it makes an equally refined jewelry box with storage to spare. For the home office, its compact footprint and multiple compartments suit it perfectly as a desktop organizer or collector's display chest. The warm honey-red tones and wabi-sabi aesthetic of the aged hardwood complement Japandi style interiors, mid-century modern spaces, and minimalist decor alike. A thoughtful housewarming gift or unique gift for Japanophiles and collectors of vintage Japanese craft.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1990-2018 (Heisei)
• Material: Boldly grained hardwood, possibly keyaki (zelkova); lighter wood interior trays; cast metal bar pulls; metal hinges
• Use: Personal storage chest (Sewing Box) -- originally used to store clothing accessories, cosmetics, or small valuables
• Modern Use: Jewelry box and keepsake organizer; bedroom decor accent or bedside chest; home office desktop storage and collector's display
• Features: Hinged lift-top lid with fitted removable interior trays; multiple hikidashi drawers in an asymmetric stepped layout, each set within carved recessed panels with rounded frames; dark cast metal bar pulls throughout; carved carry-through side handles; visible corner joinery on base; warm amber-red polished finish
• Dimensions: 14"W x 10"D x 12"H
• Condition: Excellent

A beautifully preserved piece of Japanese antique furniture -- this ko-tansu brings the quiet elegance of Heisei craftsmanship into 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.