Authentic Meiji Era Wajima Nuri Obon Tray Antique Japanese Lacquerware

Authentic Meiji Era Wajima-Nuri Obon Tray – Antique Japanese Lacquerware

Discover the timeless beauty of traditional Japanese craftsmanship with this exceptional Meiji Era Wajima-nuri obon tray, dating from approximately 1868–1912.

Handcrafted in Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, this tray represents one of Japan's most celebrated lacquerware traditions. For centuries, Wajima artisans have been renowned for creating lacquer pieces of extraordinary durability, elegance, and refinement, using techniques passed down through generations.

This beautiful obon tray features a rich brown and black lacquer finish that has developed a warm character through more than a century of careful preservation. Its understated elegance reflects the Japanese appreciation for simplicity, balance, and enduring beauty.

Acquired directly from a Japanese Government Antique Auction, this piece carries both authenticity and historical provenance, making it a wonderful addition to any serious collection of Japanese antiques or traditional decorative arts.

✨ Product Highlights
✅ Authentic Meiji Era Japanese obon tray
✅ Traditional Wajima-nuri lacquerware
✅ Handcrafted in Wajima, Ishikawa Prefecture
✅ Natural wood core construction
✅ Finished with traditional urushi lacquer
✅ Elegant brown and black lacquer tones
✅ Excellent antique condition for its age
✅ Acquired from a Japanese Government Antique Auction
✅ Collectible and functional work of art
✅ Beautiful display piece for traditional or modern interiors

About Wajima-Nuri
Wajima-nuri is widely regarded as one of Japan's finest lacquerware traditions.
What makes Wajima lacquerware unique is the meticulous process used during production. Artisans strengthen the wooden base with layers of lacquer mixed with locally sourced jinoko (diatomaceous earth), creating remarkable durability. Many pieces also feature cloth reinforcement techniques that allow them to withstand generations of use.

The creation of a single Wajima-nuri piece may involve more than one hundred individual steps and the work of numerous specialized craftsmen. Because of this extraordinary process, Wajima lacquerware is highly respected throughout Japan and often passed down as family heirlooms.

A Piece of Japanese History
Dating to the Meiji period, this tray was created during one of Japan's most transformative eras, when traditional craftsmanship flourished alongside rapid modernization.

Owning an authentic Meiji Era lacquerware piece provides a direct connection to Japanese cultural history and the master artisans who preserved these techniques for future generations.

Condition
Excellent antique condition for its age.
Minor age-related wear, light surface marks, and natural patina may be present, consistent with a genuine antique over 100 years old.
These characteristics contribute to the authenticity and historical charm of the piece.

Please review all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description.
Additional Information About This Item
Origin: Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan
Era: Meiji Period (1868–1912)
Type: Obon Serving Tray
Material: Natural Wood, Urushi Lacquer
Technique: Traditional Wajima-Nuri
Color: Brown and Black Lacquer Finish
Condition: Excellent Antique Condition
Acquisition: Japanese Government Antique Auction

Display Uses:
Tea Ceremony
Traditional Dining
Antique Display
Japanese Interior Décor
Wabi-Sabi Spaces
Collector's Collection
Why Collect Wajima-Nuri?

Collectors around the world seek Wajima lacquerware for its:
Exceptional craftsmanship
Historical significance
Remarkable durability
Elegant minimalist beauty
Investment and heirloom quality

Unlike modern mass-produced lacquerware, authentic Meiji-period Wajima pieces represent a level of artistry that is increasingly difficult to find.

📢 Important Shipping Policy Update
To ensure safe delivery, we currently ship one item per order only.
Orders with multiple items may be canceled and refunded. Once your item arrives safely, you’re welcome to place another order.

📦 Condition
Please review all photos carefully, as they form part of the item description. Dimensions and additional details are provided in the images.