Checkerboard pattern – KŌSHI
KŌSHI, meaning lattice, is a marquetry series that gives form to balance and order.
The checkerboard pattern formed by alternating squares has long been part of Japanese spatial design.
This piece is made using Japanese cedar, with its clear, lustrous grain.
Japanese cedar combines a soft texture with delicate growth-ring patterns that shift quietly with the light.
Alternating the grain direction creates different shades within a single wood species, introducing subtle variation into a regular composition.
The restrained composition allows the beauty of the material itself to stand out.
Considered craftsmanship, beyond machine production
This tray is made by MORI KOUGEI, a Tokushima workshop specializing in veneer work across three generations.
Drawing on experience in decorative plywood for furniture and architecture, we developed an artistic approach to creating patterns with wood.
Assessing the joining angles, flow of grain, and character of each material requires a craftsperson’s experience and skill.
Each tray is carefully finished by hand, using a sensitivity to the material that mass production cannot replicate.
A rectangular form that fits into daily life
The versatility of a rectangular tray
- Serve bread and coffee at breakfast
- Arrange your favorite tableware
- Use as a base for keys, a vase, or an incense holder in an entryway or on a shelf
- Style with plants or objects as part of an interior setting
Its straight lines and stable form combine an easy-to-use size with a quiet presence.
The beauty of carefully selected natural wood
Each piece has its own expression, so even the same design creates a different impression.
A thoughtful gift
Supplied in dedicated gift packaging, it is also chosen for weddings, housewarmings, and gifts sent abroad.
The character of natural wood and Japanese craftsmanship quietly conveys the giver’s thoughtfulness.
Product information
- Size: 250 × 365 × H22 mm
- Material: natural Japanese cedar veneer
- Finish: indigo dye and clear urethane coating
- Design: graf
About indigo dyeing
Indigo dyeing is a traditional Japanese technique using a natural dye.
The depth of blue comes from layers of dye built up over time.
Applying indigo to wood subtly brings out its grain and growth rings, with tones changing according to the light. Rather than covering the surface uniformly, the layered color preserves the wood’s character, giving each piece a different expression.
With use and time, the indigo blue develops a deeper, more settled appearance.
Natural material and traditional technique come together in a quiet color with depth.
The tray alone is supplied. Tableware used in the photographs is not included.
Dedicated gift packaging included.
Product care
• Excessive impacts may cause damage. Please handle with care.
• If the product gets wet, wipe it with a dry cloth before storing.
• Leaving the product wet may cause stains or cracking.
• Do not store in direct sunlight or places with large changes in temperature or humidity.
Before purchasing
• Colors may appear slightly different from the actual product depending on your monitor.
• As this is natural wood, grain and color vary from piece to piece.
• As each piece is handcrafted, minor scratches and small variations may occur.
• Returns are not accepted unless the product is defective.
Shipping
Delivery within Japan
• For rates and details, see here.
• Orders are dispatched on weekdays only, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and Japanese public holidays.
International delivery
• We ship worldwide to destinations we can serve.
• Shipping charges depend on destination and weight. For rates and details, see here.
• Any customs duties charged on arrival are the customer’s responsibility.
