Vintage Japanese Haribako Sewing Box, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0248

Vintage Japanese Haribako Sewing Box, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0248

A handcrafted vintage Japanese sewing box with dramatic swirling grain, divided interior compartments, and multiple pull-out drawers -- a rare find in exceptional condition.

A haribako is a traditional Japanese sewing box used to store needles, thread, scissors, and small notions in an organized and beautiful way. This example, crafted during the Late Showa era, showcases the enduring appeal of vintage Japanese craft: every exterior panel is wrapped in boldly figured wood with sweeping flame grain -- consistent with keyaki (zelkova) or a similarly striking Japanese hardwood -- finished in a warm amber-red tone that deepens with age. The split hinged lid opens to reveal a kiri wood (paulownia) interior fitted with several fixed divider compartments sized perfectly for small accessories. Below, a series of smooth-sliding drawers -- each fronted with the same richly grained exterior wood and fitted with cast metal cloud-scroll ring pulls -- provide generous additional storage. The low plinth base and carefully molded skirt give the piece a composed, furniture-quality presence rarely seen in domestic storage boxes of this type.

Today, this haribako transitions effortlessly into a modern home. Its compact footprint -- under 16 inches wide -- makes it an ideal bedroom decor accent on a dresser or nightstand, doubling as a jewelry box and organizer for rings, earrings, and small keepsakes. Placed in a home office, the multiple drawers keep stationery, stamps, and small supplies neatly sorted in Japandi style. It also makes a distinctive desk organizer or bedside table accent for anyone drawn to the wabi-sabi aesthetic of natural wood and quiet craftsmanship. Whether gifted as a unique housewarming gift or kept as a personal treasure, this piece brings warmth and heritage to any setting.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Boldly figured hardwood exterior, possibly keyaki (zelkova), with warm amber-red finish; kiri wood (paulownia) secondary wood interior; cast metal ring pulls; metal hinge hardware
• Use: Traditional Japanese haribako -- a sewing and notions storage box for needles, thread, scissors, and small accessories
• Modern Use: Jewelry box and keepsake organizer; home office desk organizer; bedroom decor accent or dresser-top storage
• Features: Split hinged lid opening to a divided interior with several fixed compartments; multiple smooth-sliding drawers below in a graduated layout; cast metal cloud-scroll ring pulls on each drawer; low plinth base with molded skirt; striking swirling flame grain on all exterior panels
• Dimensions: 15 1/2"W x 11"D x 11"H
• Condition: Excellent

A beautifully preserved piece of vintage Japanese craft -- this haribako sewing box brings the quiet elegance of Showa-era woodworking to any modern bedroom, home office, or living space.

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.