Large Vintage Japanese Maki-e Lacquer Kimono Tray

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A large square lacquer presentation tray (likely for kimono) predated 1950 of the Showa period. Elaborately decorated with Maki-e that … Read more A large square lacquer presentation tray (likely for kimono) predated 1950 of the Showa period. Elaborately decorated with Maki-e that depicts the prunus blossom, bamboo and needle pine branches on a fantastic mottled mura nashiji background. The techniques used on this tray include hiramaki-e, the low relief maki-e, mostly with gold powder, that is occasionally intercepted with silver and pewter powder to create a visual contrast. Kirigane technique was used with both gold and pewter flakes were to outline the trunks and branches. The base was finished in a sparser nashiji. The tray is impressive with its size and detailed decoration. It retains the original tomobako (the storage Kiri wood box) on which a faint inscription reads Tsuruki, Kyoto and November 10th and the year of 1950, which is likely the date the tray was purchased. While it is possible that the tray was made earlier. This tray was evidently only used occasionally in the past and remains in beautiful condition. It will make a great centerpiece for display. See less