Checked Pattern Washi Echizen Lacquerware Serving Tray

This is a serving tray by Mr. Kiyoteru Morita, a renowned undercoat craftsman of Echizen lacquerware.The soft texture of the Japanese paper applied underneath brings out a new charm of lacquer. It has a matte feel, which is rare for lacquer, and looks like a tweed weave. The sides are dug with grooves, making it easy to hold. The subdued silver shine brings even more elegance.It can be used to serve appetizers, main dishes, and desserts, or it can be combined with small plates, bowls, and ochoko (sake cups). It is also wonderful as a plate for sushi or tempura. To clean, wipe it with a wet cloth when it gets dirty. It can be quickly rinsed with water, but please make sure to wipe it dry thoroughly. Echizen lacquerware originated around the city of Sabae in Fukui Prefecture, in the northern part of Japan. Known for its subdued luster and elegant beauty with a history going back more than 1,500 years.  Echizen lacquerware has developed techniques for product diversification and mass production in response to changing lifestyles and market needs. Echizen lacquerware is easy to use, durable, and beautiful, and is loved not only by households but also by cooking professionals, accounting for more than 80% of all lacquerware for the food industry and commercial use in Japan. PRODUCT DETAIL Quantity: 1  Dimension: 42cm(16.5in) × 15cm(5.9in) × H1.3cm(0.5in), Material: Wood Coating: Lacquer Origin: Made in Japan – Echizen Lacquerware  FEATURES MR. KIYOTERU MORITA Mr. Morita is a veteran undercoat craftsman with nearly 50 years of experience, including receiving special awards and serving as a judge for the Nitten exhibition,  the most popular of all the great art organizations in Japan.Lacquerware made by Mr. Morita has a unique texture with raised patterns of cloth and Japanese paper. Fukui Prefecture is the birthplace of “Echizen Washi” (Japanese paper), which inspired him to try using it in Echizen lacquerware, which is also produced in the same prefecture.Mr. Morita, who continues to experiment and take on challenges within the established techniques of traditional crafts, is also keen on lacquer craft as an art form, and has received the “Fukui Prefecture Cultural Award” for his achievements.