Vintage Japanese Kiridame Graduated Nesting Lacquered Wood Boxes, Early Showa 1927-1945 | SKU: 26J-0698-1

Vintage Japanese Kiridame Graduated Nesting Lacquered Wood Boxes, Early Showa 1927-1945 | SKU: 26J-0698-1

A rare graduated set of lacquered wood nesting boxes bearing a handwritten owner's mark -- a striking piece of Japanese vintage craft with undeniable wabi-sabi character.

A jubako is a traditional Japanese stacking or nesting box set, historically used to store and present layered foods during seasonal celebrations, or to organize and transport goods with care and ceremony. This remarkable set consists of multiple lidded boxes graduating in size, designed to nest one inside another and stack in a stepped pyramid form. Each box is finished in a deep reddish-brown lacquer-like coating applied over a lightweight wood base -- likely kiri (paulownia) -- giving the set a unified, jewel-toned appearance that deepens with age. The interiors are left in natural unfinished wood, a hallmark of practical Japanese craft. Visible on the base of the largest box is a red owner's or shop mark rendered in romaji as "Kambara" or similar -- a personal stamp that grounds this set in a specific place and household from early Showa Japan. Corner joinery is straightforward and sturdy, consistent with mid-level Japanese workshop production of the era. Age-related chipping at the edges and corners adds honest patina that collectors of vintage Japanese craft will appreciate.

In a modern home, this graduated nesting set offers extraordinary versatility and visual impact. Stacked in full pyramid formation, it becomes an instant living room accent or entryway display piece with the quiet drama of Japandi style. Individual boxes can be used separately as desktop organizers, jewelry storage, or catchall trays on a bathroom vanity or bedside table. The largest box alone works beautifully as a flat-lay display tray for curated objects -- crystals, incense holders, or small succulents. Displayed as a set, these boxes make a truly unique housewarming gift or gift for Japanophiles who appreciate the wabi-sabi aesthetic of worn, storied objects. Whether kept together or used individually across multiple rooms, each piece carries a century of quiet domestic history.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927-1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Wood, likely kiri (paulownia), with a reddish-brown lacquer-like finish; natural unfinished wood interiors
• Use: Graduated nesting storage and presentation boxes (jubako-style), used for layered storage or seasonal display
• Modern Use: Pyramid display accent for living room or entryway; individual desktop or vanity organizers; decorative tray or catchall for curated objects
• Features: Multiple lidded boxes graduating in size; full nesting and stacking form; deep reddish-brown lacquer-like finish with age patina; natural wood interiors; red owner's or shop mark on interior base of largest box; corner chipping consistent with age
• Dimensions: 10"W x 7"D x 3 1/2"H (Small), 15"W x 12"D x 6"H (Large)
• Condition: Good vintage condition -- lacquer shows honest edge wear and corner chipping consistent with age; structure is sound throughout

A captivating set of vintage Japanese nesting boxes that brings layered history, warm lacquered color, and wabi-sabi charm 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 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.