Large Japanese Lacquer Tray with Maki-e Carp Design Meiji Period

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A large rectangular tray with scalloped corners and slightly raised gallery rim circa late 19th century to early 20th century … Read more A large rectangular tray with scalloped corners and slightly raised gallery rim circa late 19th century to early 20th century (end of Meiji period). The center image showcases a lively carp swimming in the water swaying with aquatic plants. The carp was rendered in a high relief takamakie, significantly raised from the surface. The body features beautiful maki-e gold scales done individually with togidashi technique and a MOP inlay for the eye. The water stream was also done with togidashi to give the backdrop a dream-like quality, and a touch of silver dust and red pigment were included for a more dimensional visual effect. Aquatic grasses, swaying in the stream and forming the border, were painted with gold hiramakie. The background and the base were kept completely black so that the viewer's attention was solely drawn to the imagery. See less