Vintage Japanese Haribako Sewing Box, Mid Showa 1946-1965 | SKU: 26J-0492

Vintage Japanese Haribako Sewing Box, MId Showa 1946-1965 | SKU: 26J-0492

A charming prewar Japanese needlework chest with a hinged lift-top tray and multiple asymmetrical drawers -- warm honey-toned wood with decorative cast metal pulls.

A haribako is a traditional Japanese sewing box used to organize needles, thread, scissors, and other needlework essentials. This fine example of vintage Japanese craft follows a classic prewar form: a hinged lift-top lid opens to reveal a partitioned interior tray, ideal for frequently used tools, while a series of pull-out drawers below -- arranged in an asymmetrical layout with both narrower and deeper compartments -- provides generous tiered storage. The body is constructed from a light-toned hardwood, likely kiri (paulownia) or a similar fine-grained domestic species, finished to a warm amber tone that has mellowed beautifully with age. Each drawer is fitted with a diamond-shaped cast metal knob featuring a delicate scalloped surround, a decorative detail typical of mid Showa domestic production. The simple plinth base and softly rounded top corners give the piece a restrained elegance consistent with handcrafted Japanese vintage furniture of the period.

Today this compact haribako translates effortlessly into modern living. Its multiple drawers and partitioned top tray make it an exceptional jewelry box for a bedroom vanity -- rings, earrings, and bracelets slot neatly into the divided compartments while larger pieces rest in the deeper lower drawers. It also works beautifully as a desktop organizer in a home office, corralling pens, paper clips, and small stationery in wabi-sabi style. Collectors and Japanophiles will appreciate its warm patina and authentic period hardware; it makes a distinctive housewarming gift or a standout accent in any Japandi-inspired interior. Display it on a sideboard, dresser, or shelf and let its quiet, lived-in character speak for itself.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1946-1965 (Mid Showa)
• Material: Light-toned hardwood, likely kiri (paulownia); cast metal drawer pulls with scalloped diamond surround; metal hinge hardware
• Use: Haribako -- traditional Japanese sewing and needlework storage box
• Modern Use: Jewelry box or vanity organizer; desktop stationery and small-item storage; decorative accent for Japandi or wabi-sabi styled interiors
• Features: Hinged lift-top lid with partitioned interior tray; multiple asymmetrical pull-out drawers of varying widths and depths; decorative cast metal knobs with scalloped surround on each drawer; simple plinth base; warm honey-amber patina with age-appropriate surface wear
• Dimensions: 12 3/4"W x 7 1/2"D x 10"H
• Condition: Good vintage condition -- surface scratches and patina consistent with age and use; all drawers functional; hinge intact

A beautifully aged piece of vintage Japanese craft that brings warmth, quiet utility, and authentic prewar character 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 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.