One of a Kind Rays Tray｜RAYS No.2663
A grain-born expression that can never be recreated.
This is a one-of-a-kind work — never to be reproduced.
Even with the same composition, no two pieces share the same face.
The wood grain and the combination of materials ensure that every piece is entirely its own.
About Rays
Radial Veneer Work
Rays is a pattern created by cutting natural wood veneer into triangular pieces
and arranging them in a radial configuration from the center outward.
As the angle of light and the viewing position shift,
the shadow and sheen of the grain change quietly —
an expression emerges that recalls light reflected on the surface of water.
Even from a single wood species, a change in the direction of application alone
can produce an expression this rich —
that is the essence of the radial veneer technique.
About This Piece
· A one-of-a-kind piece using carefully selected lustrous sections of Japanese cedar root grain, arranged in a radial application
· The flow of grain expanding from the center shifts its expression with the angle of light
· A soft cream-to-gold tone with the complex figuring characteristic of root grain
· The deep reddish-brown of the sapele edge board draws the bright surface together
· Root grain is a rare material — no two pieces will share the same sheen or figuring
· Even within the same composition, each piece reads differently through the individuality of its grain
Wood Species
This piece uses Japanese cedar (sugi) root grain veneer.
Root grain is the complex figuring that forms near the base of the tree,
carrying an organic flow and sheen quite unlike ordinary wood grain.
By carefully selecting sections with particularly strong lustre
and arranging them in a radial application,
a surface is created whose shimmer shifts and moves with the viewing angle.
Precision Handcraft — Beyond the Reach of Machines
This tray is made by MORI KOUGEI, a workshop based in Tokushima that has specialized in wood veneer work for three generations. Drawing on decades of expertise in decorative panels for furniture and architecture, the atelier has established an artistic approach to drawing with wood.
Reading the angle of each join, the direction of the grain, the character of each species — none of this can be done without the experience and skill of a trained craftsperson.
Each piece is finished with care, relying on the sensitivity of the hand — work that mass production cannot replicate.
The Rectangle — A Form That Lives in Any Space
The Versatility of a Rectangular Tray
· A morning tray for bread and a cup
· A curated arrangement of your favorite vessels
· A resting place for keys, a vase, or incense at the entryway or on a shelf
· Paired with plants or objects as part of a living arrangement
The clean lines and inherent stability of this form make it easy to bring into daily life —
a piece with both quiet presence and practical scale.
The Beauty of Carefully Selected Natural Wood
Each piece carries its own distinct expression.
Even within the same design, the impression shifts entirely from one piece to the next.
A Gift Worth Giving
Presented in a dedicated gift package of considered quality,
this tray has been warmly received as a wedding gift, a housewarming present, and a gift sent abroad.
A single piece that carries the warmth of natural wood and the quiet skill of Japanese craftsmanship —
it speaks on behalf of the person who gives it.
Product Details
Size: 250 × 365 × H22 mm
Material: Natural wood veneer
Finish: Urethane clear coat
※ The tray only is included. Tableware and styling accessories shown in photographs are not included.
※ Comes with a dedicated gift package.
This listing is for this individual piece only.
Once sold, it will not be available again.
Care Instructions
· Avoid strong impact
· Wipe away moisture immediately with a dry cloth
· Leaving the surface wet may cause staining or cracking
· Store away from direct sunlight, extreme heat, and high humidity
Before You Purchase
◉ Colors may appear differently depending on your monitor settings
◉ As a natural wood product, grain and color vary between pieces
◉ Minor marks or slight variations may occur due to the handmade nature of this work
◉ Returns are not accepted except in the case of defective products
— Shipping —
Domestic Shipping (Japan)
◉ For rates and details, please see here.
◉ Orders are shipped on weekdays only. Shipping on weekends and public holidays is not available.
International Shipping
◉ We ship worldwide to all available destinations.
◉ Shipping rates vary by region and weight. For rates and details, please see here.
◉ Any customs duties or import taxes upon arrival are the responsibility of the customer.
