Vintage Japanese Haribako Wooden Sewing Chest with Yagura Tower Mingei Folk Art
Description
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This is a beautiful and authentic Haribako (traditional Japanese sewing box), complete with its distinctive Yagura (tower-style stand). This style of chest was an essential piece of furniture in a Japanese household during the late Meiji to early Showa era, used to store needles, thread, and measuring tools.
The vertical Yagura tower is a rare and highly sought-after feature. It traditionally holds a pincushion at the top and serves as a stand for measuring rulers, allowing the seamstress to work with precision while seated on a tatami floor.
Key Features:
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Traditional Design: Features a multi-drawer configuration with five drawers of varying sizes, perfect for organizing jewelry, stationery, or small craft supplies.
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Exquisite Woodwork: Crafted from solid wood with a rich, deep grain (reminiscent of Keyaki or similar hardwood), finished in a warm dark brown that highlights its natural beauty.
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Yagura Tower: Includes the rare vertical stand with a small open-top box designed for a pincushion (Hari-yama) and ruler storage.
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Authentic Hardware: Adorned with classic Japanese metal drawer pulls, providing a beautiful contrast to the seasoned wood.
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Mingei Aesthetic: A perfect example of Japanese folk art (Mingei), combining functional utility with timeless, understated elegance.
Size (Approx.):
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Total Height: 47.0 cm / 18.5 in
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Width: 22.0 cm / 8.7 in
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Depth: 24.0 cm / 9.4 in
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Weight: 2.5 kg / 5.5 lbs
Condition: Good Vintage condition with authentic age-related character. The wood shows a wonderful natural patina and minor surface scuffs from historical use. There is a visible natural age crack in the vertical post, which is common in seasoned wood and does not affect its stability. All drawers open smoothly. Please inspect the high-resolution photos to appreciate the historic texture of this piece.