Japanese Lacquered Obon Tray with Peony, 1920s

Details

Description

Graceful Japanese obon tray with a wooden core, finished in deep black lacquer and subtly decorated with two peony blossoms … Read more Graceful Japanese obon tray with a wooden core, finished in deep black lacquer and subtly decorated with two peony blossoms in the corners.

The flowers are finely engraved and picked out in a warm golden-brown line, softly glowing against the dark background. In Japan, the peony (botan) is known as the “king of flowers” and symbolises wealth, elegance and confident beauty – a meaningful detail within an otherwise very calm design.

Dimensions: height 2 cm, width 36 cm, depth 24 cm.

On the underside there is a Japanese inscription referring to a Buddhist memorial service. Trays of this kind were used to present tea, sweets or small offerings.

The tray shows normal signs of use: light surface scratches and some wear to the lacquer along the edges. The lacquer still has a beautiful sheen, and the floral decoration remains clearly visible.

Use the tray to serve tea or coffee, a small dessert, wagashi or fruit, or as a simple base for a still life with a vase, candle or incense burner.

A timeless, graphic accent that subtly brings Japanese atmosphere into your home. See less