Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
This magnificent square lacquer tray features intricate polychrome carved lacquer (tichai or multi-colored carved lacquer) illustrating lush blossoms, foliage, and intricate diaper-pattern grounds. Known in Japanese connoisseurship as 'Kōka Ryokuyō' (red flowers, green leaves), the technique utilizes built-up layers of differently colored sap before precise hand-relief carving.
Story
Carved lacquer required applying over a hundred micro-thin layers of natural tree sap, drying each for days, before a master artisan hand-carved the relief design. Highly sought after by Japanese tea masters as 'Tōmono' (treasured Chinese imports), trays like this bridges elite Chinese craftsmanship and Japanese aesthetics.
Maker / Origin
Imperial Chinese lacquer workshops reached peak mastery during the Ming and Qing dynasties, developing multi-colored lacquer (Caiqi) techniques. Master artisans worked under strict guild systems, building pieces that took up to a year of continuous labor to complete before carving through the strata.
Condition & Value
Appears remarkably intact for carved lacquer with rich patina. Minor surface wear and natural age micro-craquelure typical of authentic lacquerwork; no severe structural cracks or major losses visible in photos.
Full Research
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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.