Golden Amber Clam-Shaped Tray
Ships from Japan · Free shipping on orders over $250 USD
Estimated Shipping Widget will be displayed here!
Crafted from hinoki cypress, this tray takes its distinctive form from the soft curves of a clam shell, finished in the golden-amber hues of Hida Shunkei lacquerware. Fine horizontal lines form cloud-like motifs on the bottom half.
The rounded shape has long been regarded as auspicious in Japan, associated with harmony and good fortune. Its flowing outline is formed with few straight lines, while the multiple coats of translucent suki-urushi allow the natural wood grain to remain visible beneath the glossy surface.
This clam-shaped design holds a special place in the history of Hida Shunkei lacquerware, as the craft is said to have begun with a tray of this form more than four centuries ago. Still made in the same distinctive shape today, it can be used to serve Japanese sweets, tea, or sake, or as a tray for arranging favorite objects.
DETAILS
| Quantity | 1 |
| Size | L 23.7 cm (9.3 in) x W 29 cm (11.4 in) x H 1.7 cm (0.7 in) |
| Weight | approx. 5.3 oz (150 g) |
| Material | Wood |
| Package Type | Paper box |
| Microwave | No |
| Dishwasher | No |
Maker / Brand
Founded in 1858, Fukuju Shikkiten is one of the longest-established makers of Hida Shunkei lacquerware in Takayama, Gifu Prefecture.
The craft was born in a region of abundant forests. While most lacquerware is finished in black or vermilion, Hida Shunkei uses clear lacquer to reveal the natural wood grain. The way each artisan applies the lacquer gives it a subtly different tone, making every piece unique. With use, each piece develops a deeper luster and settles naturally into the hand, becoming part of everyday life over the years.
Crafts
Hida Shunkei is a lacquerware craft from Takayama and the surrounding Hida region of Gifu Prefecture, an area long known for its woodworking tradition. For more than 400 years, artisans have coated dyed woods such as hinoki and sawara cypress as well as Japanese horse chestnut with clear lacquer, allowing the natural grain to remain visible through its deep, translucent luster.
The longer a piece is used, the brighter and more lustrous the lacquer becomes, emphasizing the beauty of the wood even further. Hida Shunkei was designated a Traditional Craft by the Japanese government in 1975 and continues to evolve while preserving the techniques passed down through generations.
How to Care
Notes
Choose options
Estimated Shipping Widget will be displayed here!
Serving Trays
Discover our curated collection of serving trays, where timeless Japanese craftsmanship meets modern living. From elegant Japanese trays that highlight tradition to versatile wooden trays, each piece is designed to make your dining and entertaining effortless and refined.
Choose from a variety of materials, including warm bamboo and lacquerware, to elevate everyday moments.
Whether you’re presenting a full meal, arranging breakfast trays, or serving tea, these functional yet stylish designs add sophistication and authenticity to any table setting.
