Vintage Japanese Obon Lacquer Tray, 1966 - 1989 (Late Showa) | SKU: 26M-963-3

Japanese Obon Lacquer Tray | Vintage Serving Tray & Living Room Accent, 1966-1989 (Late Showa), SKU 26M-963-3

A boldly carved Japanese lacquerware tray with a richly engraved floral motif and deep cinnabar-red finish

An obon is a traditional Japanese serving tray used in the home, inn, and tea setting to present food, drink, or ceremonial objects with quiet elegance. This handcrafted Japanese antique obon is finished in a striking two-tone lacquer -- a deep cinnabar red on the interior and rim, set against a near-black lacquered underside -- a classic color pairing long associated with formal Japanese lacquerware. The interior surface is covered in a finely incised pattern: radiating lines fan outward from a central carved floral motif, likely depicting a stylized iris or lily blossom, a beloved subject in Japanese decorative arts. The carving technique, which reveals the darker base layer beneath the red lacquer, creates a vivid chiaroscuro effect characteristic of vintage Japanese craft from the Late Showa period. Integrated cutout handles on each short end allow for easy carrying, maintaining the clean profile of the tray without added hardware.

This elongated tray is as visually compelling as it is functional, and adapts beautifully to modern interiors. Use it as a living room accent piece on a coffee table or chabudai to corral candles, stones, or seasonal decorations in a wabi-sabi aesthetic. Its narrow, elongated form makes it ideal as a console tray or entryway catch-all for keys and small objects, or as a curated display surface on a sideboard or dining table. The dramatic red and black lacquer palette pairs naturally with Japandi style decor and makes it a unique housewarming gift for collectors, Japanophiles, or anyone drawn to handcrafted Japanese antique furniture and objects.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Wood with red and black lacquer finish
• Use: Traditional Japanese serving tray (obon) for presenting food, tea, or ceremonial items
• Modern Use: Coffee table or console display tray; entryway organizer for keys and small items; decorative accent in Japandi or wabi-sabi styled living rooms
• Features: Deeply incised radiating pattern with central carved floral motif; two-tone cinnabar-red and black lacquer; integrated cutout handles on each end; plain black lacquered underside
• Dimensions: 12"W x 19"D x 1"H
• Condition: Excellent

A striking piece of Japanese antique lacquerware that brings artisanal warmth and bold graphic beauty to any modern home.

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.