Japanese Maki-e Lacquerware Serving Trays, Set of 5

Story

Crafted during a golden age of Japanese export art, these trays were designed to bring the poetic landscapes of old Japan directly to the dining table. Each individual tray tells a different chapter of a coastal village's daily relationship with the sea and mountains.

Maker / Origin

While unsigned, these trays represent the highly skilled workshop traditions of Japanese lacquer centers like Wajima or Kanazawa. Artisans in these regions spent decades mastering the control of sap and precious metal dusts, passing down secret family recipes for varnishes through generations.

Condition & Value

The lacquer surfaces show minor light scratching and dust consistent with age and gentle use. The gold maki-e remains remarkably bright and intact with minimal rubbing. Excellent preservation of the delicate gold dust borders. Value is driven by the fact that this is a complete, matching set of five in relatively good condition.