Antique Original Japanese Shibayama Laquered Tray M.O.P

JAPANESE, MEIJI PERIOD, SHIBAYAMA INLAID & LAQUERED TRAY

This is a truly amazing work of art and testament to the skill of the craftsmen of late 19th century Japan.

Dimensions:  13 inches x 9 inches x 1 inch (33 cms x 23 cms x 2 cms) approx.

Shibayama is an art form that originated in Japan. Shibayama is the art of semiprecious shell inlay on lacquer and ivory pieces. The items decorated in the Shibayama style range from vases, boxes and table-screens to swords and trays etc. Due to the delicate nature of the art form and to the fragility of the resulting pieces, intact Shibayama items are highly valuable and prized by collectors.

This gorgeous lacquered tray dates from the late 19th century and is a stunning example of exquisite carving and laquer work. The inlay consists of different colored sections of mother of pearl. The effect on the black lacquered ground is quite stunning. The condition of the tray is original and free from damage and restoration apart from very minor frits on the edge of the tray in a few areas only (see picture 4). The gilding on the trays rim may have been touched up at some point but it is hard to tell.

A great example of this type of work and highly collectible.

Picture 6 shows a similar example currently being offered by a US antiques dealer for $10,000!

details at this link:

htttp://hartmanrareart.com/japanese_shibayama.html#

I am risking offering this valuable item without reserve as I am confident the market will decide its true value and it will be appreciated by anyone who loves quality.

This object comes from my own private collection and has never been shown to any antiques dealers or auction houses.

Good luck bidding, the highest bidder wins it!

Please see my other auctions. Thank you.