These two trays came from the same piece of Japanese horse chestnut wood (called tochi here in Japan).
The wood for these trays has some particularly interesting grain with a range of colors, and some natural cracks that have been reinforced using small walnut dovetail patches. Both trays have been finished with a food safe “liquid glass” finish.
Tray # 1 has three dovetail patches, and a smooth bottom surface
Tray # 2 has two dovetail patches and has been carved on the bottom
Dimensions–
Both trays – Ø 300 x T 40 mm (Ø 12″ x T 1 5/8″)
About the liquid glass finish –
The wood has been saturated with multiple coats of an extremely durable and water resistant finish commonly used here in Japan on wooden table wares. The finish, composed of silicon molecules in a solvent, soaks into the wood and bonds to the woods fibers at a molecular level producing a coating that protects the wood from stains and water penetration. It does not leave a film on the wood surface, producing a very minimal finish that lets the woods grain and carved texture maintain a very natural appearance. The finish has been thoroughly tested and approved as a food-safe finish here in Japan, and is used on everything from soup bowls, cups, and plates to full size pieces of furniture.
Care Notes –
For washing, a mild soap with rag or sponge can be used to clean the surface, followed by rinsing and drying with a clean towel.
