Vintage Japanese Tray, 1966 - 1989 (Late Showa) | SKU: 26M-077

Japanese Obon Serving Tray | Vintage Tea Tray & Living Room Accent, 1966-1989 (Late Showa), SKU 26M-077

A striking handcrafted obon finished in richly figured palm bark veneer -- a rare and distinctive example of vintage Japanese craft.

An obon is a traditional Japanese serving tray used to carry tea, food, and tableware in both domestic and hospitality settings. This substantial rectangular example dates to the Late Showa period and is distinguished by its exceptional surface treatment: the sides and rim are clad in tightly fitted segments of palm bark -- likely tiger palm or areca palm -- creating a dramatic pattern of deep auburn and amber streaks against a dark brown ground. The effect closely resembles tortoiseshell and gives the tray a bold, almost sculptural presence rarely seen in standard Japanese antique furniture. The flat tray floor is finished in a smooth dark lacquer, and the base is sealed in an ebonized black finish that anchors the overall composition. Integrated cut-out handles at each short end allow for easy carrying, their curved profiles smoothly finished to match the surrounding veneer.

In a modern home, this vintage Japanese tray makes an outstanding living room accent -- styled on a coffee table to display candles, small ceramics, or a tea set in a Japandi or wabi-sabi aesthetic. Its generous flat surface and deep, earthy tones also lend themselves beautifully to use as a bar tray or drinks server on a sideboard or entryway console. The tray's unusual tortoiseshell-like texture makes it a genuine conversation piece and a thoughtful housewarming gift for anyone with a love of handcrafted Japanese objects and mid-century modern or organic interior styles.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Wood core with palm bark veneer cladding on sides and rim; dark lacquered tray floor; ebonized base
• Use: Serving tray (obon) for tea, food, and tableware
• Modern Use: Coffee table display tray; bar tray or drinks server; decorative living room or entryway accent
• Features: Rectangular form with raised rim; palm bark veneer in a striking auburn-and-amber linear pattern; smooth dark lacquer interior floor; integrated cut-out carry handles at each short end; ebonized black underside; handcrafted construction with individually fitted veneer segments
• Dimensions: 13"W x 20" D x 2"H
• Condition: Excellent

A bold and beautifully crafted piece of vintage Japanese craft that brings warmth, texture, and wabi-sabi character to any modern interior.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage and antique items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.