This is a vintage Japanese sewing box called Hari Bako that was made of lacquered wood from early Showa (1920's-1940's).
It was originally used to store sewing accoutrements, spools of thread, a pin cushion with pins and other tools used by a seamtress or tailor. Present day purposes would include using it as a jewelry box, a keepsake or small collectibles box, a stationary box on a desk or a cosmetics box on a dresser.
13"W x 8"D x 10"H