Vintage Japanese Kaba-zaiku Cherry Bark Lidded Box with Plum Blossom Motif, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0222

Vintage Japanese Kaba-zaiku Cherry Bark Lidded Box with Plum Blossom Motif, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0222

A rare handcrafted cherry bark box with incised plum blossom motif -- a jewel of traditional Japanese folk craft

A kaba-zaiku box is a traditional Japanese lidded vessel crafted using the distinctive technique of applying wild cherry tree bark (kaba) over a wood core -- a craft most closely associated with the Kakunodate region and recognized as one of Japan's prized folk art traditions. The bark's naturally mottled amber and dark mahogany tones, marked by the characteristic horizontal lenticel streaking unique to cherry bark, give each piece an entirely one-of-a-kind surface. This example takes a refined multi-faceted oval form, with strips of kaba bark carefully fitted and polished across the sides to create a seamless, lustrous finish. The domed lid is the centerpiece: a sweeping landscape composition depicts a gnarled plum tree in full blossom, rendered in contrasting dark lacquer tones against a warm golden-amber bark ground. The floral motifs appear to be incised or relief-worked into the bark surface, with each blossom showing fine detail. Inside, the bark-lined walls continue the warm reddish-brown palette, and the open interior offers generous, clean storage space. This is a genuine example of handcrafted Japanese folk art that rewards close inspection.

In a modern home, this vintage Japanese craft box translates beautifully across a range of uses. Its generous proportions and secure-fitting lid make it ideal as a bedroom decor accent and jewelry box -- rings, earrings, bracelets, and small keepsakes nestle naturally within its smooth interior. On a vanity or dresser, the warm kaba bark surface adds instant wabi-sabi aesthetic to any arrangement. It also works handsomely as a living room accent piece -- placed on a coffee table or shelf alongside books and ceramics, it anchors a Japandi style vignette with quiet authority. For collectors of Japanese vintage craft and Japanophiles alike, this box makes a truly unique gift for any occasion -- one that carries both beauty and a tangible connection to a centuries-old Japanese tradition.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Wild cherry tree bark (kaba) over wood core; relief-worked and lacquered lid decoration
• Use: Lidded storage box for small personal items, accessories, or keepsakes
• Modern Use: Jewelry box or vanity organizer; living room decorative accent in a Japandi or wabi-sabi styled space; unique gift for collectors or Japanophiles
• Features: Multi-faceted oval form; horizontally streaked kaba bark veneer on sides and interior walls; domed lid with incised plum blossom and tree landscape in contrasting dark and amber tones; polished bark finish throughout; snug-fitting lift-off lid
• Dimensions: 12"W x 12"D x 4"H
• Condition: Excellent

A masterwork of vintage Japanese folk craft -- this kaba-zaiku box brings the quiet beauty of handcrafted Japanese art into 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.