Japanese Lacquerware Tray with Gold Decoration, 1930s

Details

Description

This square Japanese tray is made of deep black lacquered wood and stands on four elegant feet.

Dimensions: height 4.5 … Read more This square Japanese tray is made of deep black lacquered wood and stands on four elegant feet.

Dimensions: height 4.5 cm, width 27 cm, depth 27 cm.

The surface is finely decorated with a gold motif (maki-e) of pine branches (matsu), a classic symbol of good fortune in Japan, often associated with celebrations and the wishes of longevity and resilience. The slightly raised rim makes the tray practical to use, while the rich lacquer sheen gives it a calm, timeless presence.

Traditionally, this type of tray served as a serving tray or a small personal table for tea and sweets, or to present small dishes neatly during a meal. Within tea culture, lacquer trays like this are also ideal as a base for a teabowl, wagashi, or a simple, well-balanced arrangement.

Today it works beautifully as a decorative interior accent: as a display tray for ceramics, an incense holder, or small objects, or as a subtle platform for a vase, ikebana pieces, or a sculptural object. The raised-foot design adds lightness and instantly makes even a small item feel “on display”.

In beautiful original condition, with minor age-related wear consistent with use and age. See less