Lacquered Decorative Wooden Tub, Tarai, c. 1910, Japan

A lacquered Japanese tub with deep reddish-brown tones and a rich, timeworn patina.

Dimensions: height 21 cm, diameter 46 cm.

The wooden staves are held together by two metal bands with a dark patina. Wooden grips sit on either side. In Japan, a tarai was used as a washing or rinsing tub; the worn lacquer and visible wood grain give this example its distinctive character.

Placed on the floor beside a cabinet or in a quiet corner, it looks beautiful with a plant. On a large table, it can serve as a generous display bowl. Even empty, it brings warmth to a contemporary interior.

In lovely antique condition, with visible signs of use that add to its charm.