A large Japanese carved wooden tray in the wagatabon tradition, dating from the Meiji period (1868�1912). The design comprises two connected trays: a large rectangular lower tray and a smaller raised oval tray, joined by an organic carved handle formed from intertwined lotus stems.Both trays are richly carved with scrolling lotus leaves and stems, with two small lotus seed pods carved fully in the round. The upper tray incorporates a pierced lotus blossom element, adding visual lightness and refinement. The carving is confident and well defined, showing careful control of depth and movement.Carved from solid quarter-sawn keyaki (Japanese zelkova), the tray displays warm red-brown tones and a natural patina consistent with age. Keyaki was highly valued in Japan for its durability, fine grain and decorative qualities, making it a favoured material for high-quality functional objects.The lotus (hasu) is a powerful symbol in Japanese culture, associated with purity and enlighte...