Vintage Japanese Tsuishu Carved Red Lacquer Lidded Box, Early Showa 1927-1945 | SKU: 26J-0278-2

Vintage Japanese Tsuishu Carved Red Lacquer Lidded Box, Early Showa 1927-1945 | SKU: 26J-0278-2

A richly carved red lacquer lidded box in the tsuishu tradition -- presented in its original plain wood storage box with ribbon ties.

A tsuishu box is a traditional Japanese lidded storage box finished in deep red carved lacquer, a technique closely related to the Chinese cinnabar lacquer tradition that was widely practiced and adapted in Japan during the Showa era. This compact square box features bold relief carving across every surface -- a lush pomegranate and peony composition fills the flat lid, set against a finely crosshatched diaper ground, while dense floral and foliate scrollwork wraps continuously around all four sides of both the lid and base. The pomegranate motif carries traditional associations with abundance and fertility, making this a meaningful as well as visually striking piece. The interior is finished in smooth, lustrous black lacquer that contrasts beautifully with the vivid red exterior. The uniformity of the carving and the high-gloss finish suggest this is a molded lacquer-style piece consistent with quality Showa-era craft production. It arrives nestled inside its plain wood storage box secured with woven ribbon ties -- a classic Japanese presentation method that adds to the collectible appeal of this vintage Japanese craft object.

At just over five inches square and three inches tall, this box is a perfect size for a bedroom dresser or dressing table. Use it as a vintage jewelry box to store rings, earrings, and small accessories, letting its vivid red lacquer add a warm, sculptural accent to your living room or bedroom decor. It works equally well as a decorative display piece on a bookshelf or console, bringing a wabi-sabi-inspired depth of texture and color to a Japandi-style interior. Its compact footprint and striking appearance also make it a memorable housewarming gift or a standout gift for Japanophiles and collectors of Asian decorative arts.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927-1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Wood core with red carved lacquer exterior; smooth black lacquer interior; plain wood outer storage box with ribbon ties
• Use: Lidded storage box for small valuables, accessories, or sweets; decorative display object
• Modern Use: Vintage jewelry box for a bedroom dresser; decorative accent on a living room shelf or console; unique housewarming gift or gift for collectors
• Features: Deep red carved lacquer in the tsuishu style; pomegranate and peony motif on lid with crosshatched diaper ground; continuous floral and foliate relief carving on all sides; smooth black lacquer interior; plain wood outer storage box with woven ribbon ties included
• Dimensions: 5 1/4"W x 5 1/4"D x 3"H
• Condition: Excellent

A bold and beautifully crafted piece of vintage Japanese lacquerware that brings warmth, color, and centuries of decorative tradition 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.