These two trays were carved out of the same board of very light color katsura wood. Katsura is a tree that is fairly commonly used as an ornamental tree in both the US and Japan. Here in Japan the wood is occasionally used for carving as it has a really fine grain that holds detail well, while also being a joy to carve.
These two trays feature the same overall form of a heavily textured and carved exterior wrapping around the bottom and exterior of the tray transitioning to a smooth surface inside. One tray has a rim that is inset, the other is outset. Both trays have a light texture on the interior of the tray as well as the carved exterior surface. Coated in a food safe and extremely durable liquid glass finish.
Dimensions –
Inside Rim Ø 235 x T35 mm (9.25″ Ø x 1.375″ T)
Outside Rim Ø 235 x T40mm (9.25″ Ø x 1.5″ T)
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 glass-like, hard 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 bowl, followed by rinsing and drying with a clean towel.
