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Antique Japanese wooden Hokkaido Ainu tray / early 20th century/MINGEI
$1,200
£911.50
€1,050.35
CA$1,689.90
A$1,873.50
CHF 984.60
MX$22,928.58
NOK 12,296.63
SEK 11,541.61
DKK 7,840.25
About the Item
We'd like to introduce a rare item to you. This is an "ita tray," a traditional wooden tray used by the Ainu people, crafted in Hokkaido. It likely dates from the Taisho to early Showa periods and was likely made for sale as an Ainu craft of the time.
It is believed to have been made in Nibutani, Biratori Town, Hokkaido. The corresponding area is circled in red on the map of Hokkaido.
"ita" first appears in historical documents during the Ansei era (1854-1859) at the end of the Edo period. Records of half-moon and round trays from the Saru River basin being presented to the shogunate by the Matsumae domain are included. The fact that they were highly refined enough to be presented as tributes suggests a long history of activity in the region prior to this.
During the Meiji period, Ainu people began to sell the "ita" to the general public.
Attached is a document showing Ainu people crafting "ita", believed to date from the end of the Edo period to the Meiji period. We have also attached photographs of old "ita" from the Meiji period, so please take a look.
What sets this tray apart is the beautiful pattern that covers its entire surface. Combining designs known as "moreunoka," which means a spiral shape, and "ramramunoka," which means a scale pattern, it has a strength and unique beauty that is instantly recognizable as a product of Ainu culture. Ainu patterns are not simply decorative; they are traditional expressions that convey prayers to nature and spirits and ward off evil, and this tray is imbued with that same spirituality.
Trays like these are made of wood such as katsura, walnut, and Chinese pagoda tree. This tray appears to be made of a wood similar to Chinese pagoda tree, and is attractive for its calm color and deep texture that develops over time. Because it is carved from a single piece of wood, it may warp slightly over time, causing it to rattle when placed on a table, but this does not affect its practical use for placing cups and tea utensils on it. In fact, this natural distortion adds to the charm of the piece, as it is a testament to the many years it has been used.
Its generous dimensions of 36.1cm wide, 35cm deep, and 3cm high allow it to comfortably accommodate approximately four cups. Weighing just 0.55kg, it's lightweight and easy to handle, making it a versatile piece suitable for everyday use or as an interior decoration.
While artisans still craft ita trays in Hokkaido today, these ancient examples, made between the Taisho and early Showa periods, are extremely rare and rarely come on the market. The one we're offering today was specially acquired from a friend who is an antiques dealer, making it a rare find that is unlikely to be restocked.
This traditional craft, a symbol of Ainu culture, exudes a presence that adds depth to any space, whether Japanese or Western. Don't miss this opportunity!
W 36.1cm x D 35cm x H 3cm
Weight: 0.55kg
Product Number: SC132
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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: 1.19 in (3 cm)Width: 14.22 in (36.1 cm)Depth: 13.78 in (35 cm)
- Style:Taisho (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:Early 20th century
- Condition:This is an old, solid wooden tray, and has some warping due to aging. It wobbles a little when placed on a table, but it's not a problem for placing cups or other items on it. Please watch the video.
- Seller Location:Sammu-shi, JP
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU5487246481162
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- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: senzoku, Japan
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