A Distressed Antique Lacquer Footed Tray: Slightly Oval

late nineteenth century
3" x 14 1/4" diameter, 7.5 cm x 36 cm

This is a lacquered and well-used, almost-round, footed wood hinomaru-bon or a serving/eating tray which was used on special occasions.

The beauty of it is in its rich, dark red lacquer color which has been abraded by time and use; likewise the body of the piece equally shows the effects of time and wear--and it has developed a certain kind of soulful appeal as a result of that.

No doubt some of the abrasion to the flat, lacquered surface was from several of these footed trays being stacked one on top of the other for storage.

Not to be overlooked is the fact that this was hewn from one piece of wood and its form--especially its footed support--is beautifully sculptural or architectural.

The size is good as is the color. The hinomaru-bon is a richly attractive--and this kind of worn and burnished-by-time type of good quality folk item is increasingly difficult to find.

It is ready to be used, to be admired and to be cared for. It is a beautiful object, of that there is no doubt.

Recommended.