Antique Japanese Carved Keyaki Wood Banana Leaf Tray – Signed Ichiyama – Meiji Period, C. 1860 – 28” [Kh]

Details

Description

A striking and unusually large 19th-century Japanese carved wood tray, beautifully modeled in the naturalistic form of a partially curled … Read more A striking and unusually large 19th-century Japanese carved wood tray, beautifully modeled in the naturalistic form of a partially curled banana leaf. Dating to approximately 1860, the piece has a wonderfully sculptural quality, with an undulating flared rim and carefully rendered surface intended to suggest the texture and movement of a natural leaf.

The tray is carved from wood and finished in a deep brown-black lacquer, with subtle variations in the surface and patina developed through age. At an impressive 28 inches long, it makes a substantial decorative statement and would be beautiful displayed on a table, console, or stand.

The underside is signed “Ichiyama” (一山).

Especially nice is the surviving provenance accompanying the piece. It comes with its original 1986 purchase documentation and Certificate of Antiquity from Charlotte Horstmann & Gerald Godfrey Ltd. of Hong Kong. The certificate describes the piece as:

“An antique Japanese wood carving of a banana leaf, realistically carved in lifesize with flared rim partially curled, the undulations carefully rendered, lacquered in dark brown; signed Ichiyama.”

The certificate dates the piece to the 19th century, circa 1860, Japan.

Details:

* Origin: Japan
* Date: Circa 1860 / 19th century
* Meiji-period era
* Carved Keyaki wood with dark brown lacquered surface
* Naturalistic banana leaf form
* Undulating, partially curled flared rim
* Signed “Ichiyama” on the reverse
* Includes 1986 Certificate of Antiquity and original purchase documentation
* Approximately 28” L × 10” W

A particularly dramatic example of 19th-century Japanese decorative carving, combining naturalistic observation with a beautifully fluid, almost modern sculptural form. Its large scale, signed underside, and surviving 1980s documentation make it an especially interesting piece for a collection of Japanese art or for display in a layered antique interior.

Please review all photographs closely for condition, patina, surface wear, and other characteristics consistent with its age. See less