I am a Cherry Bark Square Tray. Perfectly proportioned with a smooth cherry bark finish, I’m the ideal landing spot for teapots, sweets, or anything that deserves a little extra space to shine. I keep things squared away in style. Curator's Notes I’ve always been drawn to the elegance of Denshiro’s cherry bark pieces, and these trays are no exception. The Rectangle Tray offers a sleek, elongated surface, perfect for arranging tea accessories or serving small bites with a touch of sophistication. The Square Tray, with its balanced dimensions, provides a versatile platform for anything from a teapot and cups to a selection of sweets. Both trays showcase the smooth, polished finish that highlights the natural beauty of the cherry bark, making each piece feel timeless and classic. What fascinates me is the traditional kabazaiku technique used in their creation, a craft that dates back over 200 years in Kakunodate, Akita Prefecture. Originally a side occupation for low-ranking samurai, this method involves harvesting wild cherry bark—a process requiring immense skill to ensure the tree continues to thrive. The artisans then meticulously press and polish the bark, revealing a rich, lustrous surface that’s both durable and beautiful. Incorporating these trays into my home not only elevates the presentation of everyday items but also connects me to a piece of Japanese history and craftsmanship. Cherry Bark Tray - Square was curated by Angélique Chmielewski Designer/Maker Artist: Denshiro Specifications Dimensions: 11.8" (w) x 11.8" (l) x 1.3" (h) or 298 mm (w) x 298 mm (l) x 32 mm (h) Weight: 22 oz or 618 g Materials: Cherry Bark Details Handmade in Akita, Japan Made by 6th generation family-run business Fujiki Denshiro Shoten The highest grade cherry bark, renewably sourced from the mountains of northern Japan, is used for both the top surface and underside of the tray Multiple layers of bark are prepared using traditional techniques and dried for two years to ensure durability Each sheet of cherry bark is finely whittled and refined by the hands of expert craftsmen Polished cherry bark