Mid 20th Century Japanese Kurogaki Black Persimmon Haribako Sewing Chest

Details

Description

An exceptional vintage Japanese haribako, or traditional sewing and notions chest, dating to the mid-20th-century Shōwa period, circa 1940s–1960s. Compact … Read more An exceptional vintage Japanese haribako, or traditional sewing and notions chest, dating to the mid-20th-century Shōwa period, circa 1940s–1960s. Compact yet remarkably functional, the chest features five exterior drawers beneath a hinged upper compartment, offering beautifully organized storage in a small architectural form.

The exterior showcases the dramatic dark striping associated with kurogaki, or Japanese black persimmon wood, prized for its distinctive near-black and reddish-brown grain. Warm metal drawer pulls and classically shaped butterfly or cloud-form brass hinges provide an understated decorative contrast. The hinges’ precise machine-cut edges and uniform dome-head rivets are consistent with mid-century Japanese production.

Inside, the chest contains lightweight kiri, or paulownia wood, components, including removable divided storage and cleverly concealed inner drawer boxes. Traditionally designed to hold sewing implements, thread, fabric, and personal effects, the haribako would be equally striking today as a jewelry chest, collector’s cabinet, desktop organizer, or decorative storage piece.

Its rich wood grain, clean rectilinear construction, and ingenious compartmentalized interior make this a sophisticated accent for Japanese modern, Japandi, wabi-sabi, or collected eclectic interiors.

Dimensions

12.5ʺ W × 7.5ʺ D × 10ʺ H

Condition

Good vintage condition with age-appropriate surface wear, light scratches, finish variation, and minor marks consistent with decades of use. The upper lid remains slightly ajar rather than closing completely, likely from prolonged use. This does not interfere with the chest’s functionality or overall visual appeal and has been generously reflected in the asking price. Please review all photographs for complete condition details.

Details

* Origin: Japan
* Period: Mid-20th century, Shōwa period
* Estimated date: Circa 1940s–1960s
* Exterior wood: Kurogaki, or Japanese black persimmon
* Interior components: Kiri, or paulownia wood
* Hardware: Brass and brass-toned metal
* Features: Hinged upper compartment, five exterior drawers, removable divided tray, and concealed inner storage boxes
* Style: Japanese traditional, Japanese modern, Japandi, wabi-sabi

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