Origin: Japan. Circa: Taisho, early 1900s'
H 16.25 in.(41cm), W 25.75 in.(65cm), D 2.6 in.(6.5cm)
Condition: minor imperfections, overall good!
Private Collection
Two
vermillion carp surfing above the turbulent waves in details and movement that
reflect the traditional Japanese design motif. This exquisite cinnabar lacquer
bon tray retains much of the elegant artistry of the Meiji era. However, its assembly
reveals a technique belonging to a later Taisho period, when carving hundreds
of layers of lacquer became too time consuming to satisfy the worldwide demand.
Instead, a plaster mold was first formulated on a bamboo and wood frame, and finished
with layers of lacquer. The result is no less impressive. Granting that the tray
is somewhat fragile, there are only a few touch-ups; overall it remains in very
good condition.