Antique Japanese Meiji Era (C.1890) Wood & Lacquer Obon Ozen Tray Plum & Bird

This is an antique Japanese Meiji Era (c. 1890) serving tray, Obon or Ozen. It would have been used to serve tea or small appetizers. It is made of cryptomeria wood with over 20 coats of Japanese brown lacquer. It has an etched design of a bird perched in a plum branch (Japanese symbols of strength and longevity). The plum blossom is one of the three shochikubai (elements of happiness: pine, bamboo and plum blossom).

 Having been used lovingly for over 130 years, with the exception of minor signs of past use and slight wear on the surface as well as some lacquer separation in the corners (see pictures 10 & 11), this tray remains overall in very good condition.  Sits squarely floor or table.

It measures 14" square by 1 3/4" tall (36 x 4.5 cm). A very elegant and functional piece of art to display your treasures. Please note: the bowls and tea cup seen in picture 1 are not included in this listing but can be seen in current sailerking listings.