Japanese Hiramaki-e Footed Tray

This late 19th-century square Japanese tray exemplifies the refined style of Meiji-era tea ceremony objects. Elevated by a footed base, the tray is minimally decorated with an even, black lacquer finish. The shallow tray top is patterned with hiramaki-e decoration, wherein a fine dusting of gold and metal powder is sprinkled onto drying lacquer. A time-honored way to serve tea, we love this tray as a tabletop platform for displaying prized objects.