HOLLOWED-OUT RECTANGULAR TEA TRAY, Meiji–Taisho Period（1868–1926CE）

A hollowed-out rectangular sencha tray dating from around the Meiji to Taisho period.

A rectangular sencha tray hollowed from a single piece of wood. The surface is shallowly scooped into a basin-like form, the rim left narrow so that teacups and a small teapot can be arranged in a neat, unobtrusive row.

The reverse bears a motif of repeated diagonal incisions, presenting an expression distinct from the quiet grain of the front. It fits neatly into a tea-shelf arrangement and is well suited as a tray for displaying sencha utensils or small Chinese teaware.

The wood retains a subtle sheen and bears signs of prolonged use, including scuffs, an aged patina, and wear to the corners. There is a slight overall warp and occasional minor scratches and soiling, but these do not impair its use.

This tray is perfectly proportioned for arranging a teapot and a few teacups, and it sits unobtrusively within a tea setting. It may serve as a tray for grouping small tea wares, or be used as a board to line a shelf.