Petite Tea Tray

Simple lines, a modest form, and a layer of hand-brushed lacquer give this petite Qing-dynasty tray a provincial charm that recalls the warmth of home. A tray like this would have been used to serve tea or food to friends and family gathered on traditional kang daybeds.

The brown lacquer finish has weathered with time to reveal the light brown coloring of its pine wood construction. The original iron staples can be seen on the corners of the tray, still used to reinforce the exterior edges. Today, we love using small trays like this as catch-all dishes for jewelry, glasses, and other accessories, adding character to any table setting.