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Japanese wooden wabi-sabi board/Early 20th century/Display stand/MINGEI

About the Item

This is an old wooden work board called a “Kate-Kiri-Ban,” which was used in the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture, Japan, around the early 20th century. The name breaks down as follows: “Kate” = food, “Kiri” = to cut, and “Ban” = board — making it essentially a cutting board for everyday use, especially for chopping vegetables and other daily ingredients. Each board was handcrafted by local woodworkers in rural villages, using durable and richly grained Japanese chestnut wood. The slightly raised edge was designed to prevent chopped food from spilling over — a clever detail that reflects the wisdom of everyday life. The word “Kate” in this context carries a deeper meaning beyond just “food.” In Japanese, it can also signify “the source of life” or “that which sustains daily living.” In times when access to stable food supplies was uncertain, daily nourishment was incredibly precious. This board, therefore, was not merely a kitchen tool but a vital item that supported people’s daily lives. The surface bears the marks of repeated use and features beautiful, timeworn grain patterns. While we have given it a light cleaning, we’ve left the natural patina untouched to preserve its authentic atmosphere. It can be hung on a wall like a scroll using hardware, or laid flat and used as a display platform. It makes a striking base for showcasing flower vases, sculptural objects, or antique collections. In Japan, utilitarian tools like this are becoming increasingly rare, and pieces of this nature are gaining value as cultural artifacts. We hope you will appreciate the rich history and presence this board brings to a space. *Please note: While the board is generally in good condition, there are some age-related cracks and a slight vertical warp that may cause minor unevenness. [Dimensions & Weight] Width: 87.8 cm Depth: 49.5 cm Height: 6.2 cm Weight: 8.85 kg [We are a specialized team dealing in antiques and vintage items, comprised of stores based on three distinct brands. While focusing on Japanese items, we also offer a carefully curated selection of attractive goods from around the world—each evoking the culture and history of its country of origin. Unlike the traditional Japanese antique furniture and art that have been appreciated overseas until now, we shine a light on the tools and furniture that were used for many years in ordinary Japanese homes and farmhouses. These objects have gained a unique charm over time, their beauty deepened by the history accumulated through daily life. In today’s world, however, many of these precious items are discarded during home demolitions. We are committed to reassessing their value and passing them on to future generations. Drawing from our extensive experience—having seen tens of thousands of items through direct purchases, markets, and auction houses—we carefully select and present only the most captivating pieces. This is something made possible only through the years of knowledge and expertise we have cultivated. Rather than focusing on the widely known facets of Japanese art and culture, we highlight the subtle beauty born from the everyday life of common people. It is this rediscovered beauty, steeped in history, that we strive to share with the world.]
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 2.45 in (6.2 cm)Width: 34.57 in (87.8 cm)Depth: 19.49 in (49.5 cm)
  • Style:
    Taisho (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Chestnut,Woodwork
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    Early 20th century
  • Condition:
  • Seller Location:
    Sammu-shi, JP
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU5487244848332

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