Vintage Japanese Red Lacquer Tray with Carved Peony Motif, Late Showa (1966-1989) | SKU: 26M-852-1

Vintage Japanese Red Lacquer Tray with Carved Peony Motif, Late Showa (1966-1989) | SKU: 26M-852-1

A richly lacquered wooden tray adorned with a hand-carved botan (peony) motif -- a classic symbol of prosperity and elegance in Japanese craft.

A urushi-nuri tray is a traditional Japanese lacquerware piece in which multiple layers of urushi (lacquer) are applied and polished over a wooden base to achieve a lustrous, protective finish. This circular tray displays a striking deep red lacquer surface -- known as shu-nuri -- featuring a finely relief-carved botan (peony) design set against a densely pebbled ground texture. The peony, revered in Japanese culture as the "king of flowers," was a favored motif on lacquerware gifted for celebratory occasions. The carved floral composition -- blooms, buds, and layered leaves -- shows confident, fluid craftsmanship consistent with skilled vintage Japanese lacquer work from the Late Showa period. The underside is finished in classic black lacquer, and the wood substrate reveals lathe-turned concentric rings, confirming a turned wooden core beneath the lacquer layers.

In a modern home, this vintage Japanese lacquer tray brings instant warmth and visual drama to any setting. Use it as a living room accent piece -- displayed on a coffee table or shelf to showcase its sculptural peony carving. It works beautifully as a catchall tray in an entryway or bedroom decor vignette, corralling keys, jewelry, or small objects in wabi-sabi style. Its compact size also makes it a refined serving tray for a tea or coffee presentation in Japandi-style interiors. A thoughtful housewarming gift or unique gift for collectors of handcrafted Japanese lacquerware.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Turned wood base with layered urushi (lacquer) -- deep red shu-nuri exterior, black lacquer underside
• Use: Decorative serving tray; ceremonial or gift presentation piece
• Modern Use: Coffee table display piece or living room accent; entryway catchall tray for keys and jewelry; tea or dessert serving tray in Japandi-style interiors
• Features: Circular form with raised rim; deeply relief-carved botan (peony) motif with buds and foliage; finely pebbled ground texture; high-gloss red lacquer exterior; black lacquer reverse with lathe-turned finish; signature or maker's mark visible on underside
• Dimensions: --
• Condition: Excellent

A stunning example of vintage Japanese lacquerware craft -- rich in color, symbolism, and artisanal detail that elevates 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 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.