Vintage Japanese Lacquer Jubako with Tray, Mid Showa 1946-1965 | SKU: 26J-0593

Vintage Japanese Lacquer Jubako with Tray, Mid Showa 1946-1965 | SKU: 26J-0593

A striking two-tier lacquer jubako with matching tray, adorned with gold origami crane and fern motifs on a deep black ground.

A jubako is a traditional Japanese stacking box set used to present and serve celebratory foods -- most famously the elaborately arranged osechi ryori prepared for the New Year. This vintage Japanese lacquerware set comprises two stackable tiers and a matching flat serving tray, all sharing the same distinctive clipped-corner octagonal silhouette. The exterior wears a deep, mirror-polished black lacquer finish with fine gold rim banding at each tier joint, while the interior surfaces reveal a lavishly detailed gold-on-black design: a flock of origami-style tsuru (paper cranes) in flight above sweeping fern fronds rendered with remarkable delicacy. The use of origami crane imagery rather than naturalistic cranes reflects a charming postwar decorative sensibility, blending the traditional symbolism of longevity and good fortune with a playful, graphic elegance fully consistent with mid-Showa craft aesthetics. The wood core construction and high-gloss lacquer finish speak to the skilled artisanship of this period of Japanese vintage lacquerware production.

In a modern home, this jubako set makes a stunning living room accent or dining table centerpiece -- equally at home displayed open to reveal its gold interiors or stacked closed as a sculptural object in its own right. Use the individual tiers as decorative catchall trays on a vanity, bedside table, or home office desk, or arrange the flat serving tray as a standalone display piece. The bold black-and-gold palette pairs beautifully with Japandi style interiors and minimalist decor, and the set makes an exceptional housewarming gift or gift for collectors of vintage Japanese craft. Whether used for seasonal entertaining or purely as a display piece, it brings a sense of ceremony and quiet luxury to any room.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1946-1965 (Mid Showa)
• Material: Wood core with black lacquer finish and gold decorative motifs
• Use: Stacking celebratory food box set (jubako), traditionally used for New Year osechi ryori and formal serving occasions
• Modern Use: Living room decorative accent or centerpiece; vanity or bedside catchall tray; gift for collectors of vintage Japanese lacquerware
• Features: Two stackable tiers plus a matching flat serving tray; clipped-corner octagonal form; deep mirror-polished black lacquer exterior; gold rim banding at tier joints; interior surfaces decorated with gold origami crane and fern motifs; coordinated decoration across all three pieces
• Dimensions: 8"W x 8"D x 6 1/2"H
• Condition: Excellent

A rare and beautifully preserved set of vintage Japanese lacquerware that brings the timeless symbolism of the crane and the warmth of handcrafted gold decoration into 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.