Late 20th Century Wooden Tea Tray With Mother-of-Pearl Magpie and Plum Blossom Inlay

Details

Description

This is a beautifully crafted rectangular wooden tray featuring intricate mother-of-pearl (nacre) inlay work. Crafted from a dark, richly grained … Read more This is a beautifully crafted rectangular wooden tray featuring intricate mother-of-pearl (nacre) inlay work. Crafted from a dark, richly grained hardwood with a deep, nearly black patina, the tray features a raised, scalloped gallery edge accented with small, evenly spaced dots of white shell. The tray rests on a recessed, geometric base.

The center of the tray is decorated with a detailed nature scene, traditionally known as "Magpies on Plum Branches," which is a motif symbolizing joy and good fortune. Two magpies with vibrant, iridescent green, blue, and pink tail feathers are perched on a gnarled, twisting branch. The branch is adorned with delicately cut shell blossoms and leaves in shades of white and pale yellow. The natural grain of the dark wood provides a striking, high-contrast background that makes the iridescent shell artwork pop.

The tray is solid, substantial, and features a smooth, polished finish. It serves as a stunning decorative accent or a functional piece for serving tea and organizing small items on a vanity or coffee table.

Dimensions:

Length: 36 cm (approx. 14.2 inches)

Width: 24 cm (approx. 9.4 inches)

Thickness/Height: 6 cm (approx. 2.4 inches) See less