A LACQUER SMITH'S WORK TABLE OR RECTANGULAR BOARD, TSUBAME TORI BAN JAPAN, SHOWA PERIOD |

with canted corners, the top of the panel with dense and abstract splashes of red lacquer over black extending over the sides to the edges of the reverse, the reverse with a superb marblelised ground of gold and black lacquer accentuated with occasional drips of red lacquer

Transforming Traditions, Rasti Chinese Art Ltd, Hong Kong, 2017, cat. no. 9.

Overall good condition with occasional tiny areas of retouching, max. approx. 2 x 0.7 cm.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Created in the Showa period, these work tables were a by-product of lacquer production in Japan as they were where the lacquer smiths mixed lacquer before application. Over time, as colourful layers accumulated, their initial utilitarian function would diminish. It is worth noting that the current board or work table is finished on the reverse with gold and black lacquer, suggesting that it was likely to have been intended as a stand initially but later began to function as a lacquer smith's mixing table instead.