Japanese Vanity Box
Recent Sales
20th Century Japanese Decorative Boxes
Enamel, Metal
Antique Late 19th Century Japanese Late Victorian Jewelry Boxes
Lacquer
Vintage 1960s Japanese Mid-Century Modern Decorative Boxes
Bronze, Enamel
20th Century Japanese Decorative Boxes
Wicker
Antique Early 19th Century British Regency Jewelry Boxes
Wood
Antique Early 19th Century Japanese Edo Lacquer
Silver, Bronze
Antique 1890s Japanese More Asian Art, Objects and Furniture
Antique 19th Century Decorative Boxes
Early 20th Century Boxes
Copper
Japanese Vanity Box For Sale on 1stDibs
How Much is a Japanese Vanity Box?
Finding the Right Boxes for You
From mere trinkets to useful receptacles that serve a distinct purpose, antique boxes as decorative objects have come in many forms over the years. No matter what they’re made of or where they end up in your home, decorative boxes add both style and storage to your space.
The decorative box that is likely most common is the jewelry box. These boxes were originally known as jewel caskets and were in common use in Ancient Egypt, as most Egyptians wore some sort of jewelry. A portable jewelry box, in its original intended use, was integral to keeping your jewelry safe and secure. This accessory has transformed in size, shape and appearance over the years. Initially it was common for a jewelry box to bear intricate ornamentation. Whether they’re mid-century modern works of marble and brass or feature playful Art Deco–style geometric decor, jewelry boxes boast real staying power.
Snuff boxes began to soar in popularity during the 17th century (and were commonplace in European homes by the mid-19th century). The boxes, some hand-painted with landscape scenes, some made from gold, porcelain or stone, contained a small amount of tobacco, which users would sniff, or “snuff,” throughout the day. Some particularly ornamental snuff boxes featured enameled designs or were set with precious gems and were given as gifts or party favors, particularly at the coronation of royalty or other lavish events.
Whether you’re organizing important mail in the foyer or tucking away medications in your bathroom, antique boxes — be they metal tea caddies, sterling-silver decorative boxes or Victorian cigar boxes made of oak (even if you don’t smoke) — are a sophisticated solution to help keep the surfaces in your home clutter-free. And no matter if you’re seeking a decorative box to beautify a desktop or bestow upon a loved one, you are sure to find something you love in the collection of antique and vintage boxes on 1stDibs.
- What are vanity boxes?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Vanity boxes are small ornately decorated boxes used to hold a woman's grooming essentials, such as a powder puff and a mirror. Although initially designed for travel, they are usually placed on a vanity table or dresser in modern homes. Find a selection of antique and vintage vanity boxes on 1stDibs.
- What is a Japanese puzzle box?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021A Japanese puzzle box, called himitsu-bako, are wooden boxes which keep items safe from theft through an intricate mechanical pattern. These boxes require specific steps moving the mechanism to release the obscured lid, opening to reveal the cavity within.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022To clean a Japanese lacquer box, start by moistening a soft lint-free cloth with warm water. Ring it out and then gently rub every surface. Do not use soap as it may damage the lacquer. Dry the box promptly with a second soft, dry lint-free cloth. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Japanese lacquer boxes.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The inkstone was the most precious and permanent object in a Japanese writing set. It is a mortar used for mixing dry ink with water for the purposes of writing. You'll find a selection of Japanese writing boxes on 1stDibs.
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