Fine Rosewood Tea Tray

This 19th-century serving tray exemplifies Qing-dynasty refinement with simplicity of form and an emphasis on natural materials. Crafted of prized huali rosewood, the elegant tray would have been used for serving tea, storing opium accessories or displaying a scholar's collection of fine calligraphy tools. Devoid of ornamentation, the rectangular tray is decorated only by rounded edging, dovetail corner joints and the beautiful patterning of the wood grain.

Minor splits to base due to age.