Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
A rare set of five square wooden lacquerware serving trays (suimono-zen) featuring beautifully detailed, individual landscape scenes (zugaeri) rendered in gold maki-e. Each tray depicts a distinct famous scenic vista (meisho) of old Japan, complete with iconic landmarks like Shinto torii gates, arched bridges, fishing boats, and Mount Fuji in the background.
Story
Crafted over a century ago, these trays transformed a formal meal into a poetic journey across Japan's most celebrated landscapes. Guests would lift their soup bowls to reveal a unique, hand-painted gold vista beneath.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, these trays were produced by a highly skilled lacquer workshop (shikki-ya) active during the late Meiji or Taisho era.
Condition & Value
The trays appear to be in very good antique condition with vibrant gold maki-e and a strong lacquer luster. There is minor surface wear, light scratching consistent with age and gentle use, and typical minor wear along the raised rims and small feet.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.