One of a Kind Rays Tray | No.514
An expression created by the natural grain of wood — impossible to reproduce.
This piece is a true one-of-a-kind creation and will never be reproduced.
Even with the same composition, the grain patterns and material combinations ensure that no two pieces could ever share the same expression.
About Rays
Rays is a pattern created by arranging triangular pieces of natural wood veneer radially from a central point.
Depending on the angle of light and the viewer’s position,
the shadows within the wood grain shift subtly,
evoking reflections shimmering across the surface of water.
Even when using a single wood species,
simply changing the direction of the veneer creates remarkably rich expressions —
that is the essence of the Rays technique.
Features of This Piece
・A Rays composition spreading radially outward from the center
・Single-species camphor wood construction with warm honey-gold tones
・Complex figured grain combined with the radial structure creates expressions reminiscent of kaleidoscopes and flowers
・The shadows within the figured grain shift dramatically depending on the angle of light
・The contrast with the deep reddish-brown rim boards tightens and enhances the overall composition
・Distinctive form with diagonally expanding rim boards
・The figured grain of camphor wood creates a truly unrepeatable expression
・Even within the same composition, each piece reveals a unique character through its individual wood grain
Wood Species Used
This piece is crafted using camphor wood.
A Japanese wood species characterized by warm honey-gold tones
and complex, undulating figured grain.
The combination of the radial Rays structure and the organic movement of the figured grain
creates a unique expression impossible to achieve with any other wood species.
Calculated Handcraft Beyond Machine Production
This tray is created by MORI KOUGEI, a workshop in Tokushima specializing in veneer craftsmanship for three generations.
Drawing from techniques originally developed for architectural and furniture-grade decorative plywood, MORI KOUGEI has established a unique artistic approach — “drawing patterns with wood.”
The angles of each veneer piece, the flow of the grain, and the individuality of every material
all require the trained eye and experience of skilled craftsmen.
Each tray is carefully finished by hand,
through delicate work guided by human sensitivity rather than mass production.
A Rectangular Form That Naturally Fits Into Everyday Spaces
The Practical Beauty of the Rectangle Shape
・Serve bread and coffee for breakfast
・Arrange your favorite tableware for display
・Use as a tray for keys, vases, or incense in an entryway
・Style together with plants or objects as part of an interior setting
Its clean linear form and stable proportions
offer both practicality and a strong visual presence that integrates naturally into daily life.
The Beauty of Carefully Selected Natural Wood
Every wood species carries its own unique expression,
creating entirely different impressions even within the same design.
Why It Is Also Chosen as a Gift
Presented in a refined original gift package,
it is also appreciated as a wedding gift, housewarming gift, or gift from Japan.
This piece quietly conveys the warmth of natural wood and Japanese craftsmanship,
making it a meaningful object to give and receive.
Product Information
Size: 265 × 385 × 20 mm
Material: Natural Wood Veneer
Finish: Clear Urethane Coating
*Tray only. Tableware and styling accessories shown in photographs are not included.
*Comes with a dedicated gift package.
This work is available only as this individual piece.
Sales will end once it is sold.
Care Instructions
・Avoid strong impacts
・If moisture adheres to the surface, wipe dry immediately with a soft cloth
・Leaving the product wet may cause stains or cracking
・Avoid direct sunlight, high temperatures, and excessive humidity during storage
Please Note Before Purchase
◉ Colors may vary depending on your monitor settings
◉ As natural wood is used, grain and color variations are inherent
◉ Minor scratches or dimensional variations may occur due to handcrafting
◉ Returns cannot be accepted except in the case of defective products
Shipping Information
Domestic Shipping
◉ Please check here for shipping rates and details.
◉ Orders are shipped on weekdays only. Shipments are not available on weekends or Japanese national holidays.
International Shipping
◉ Worldwide shipping is available to eligible regions.
◉ Shipping fees vary depending on destination and package weight. Please check here for details.
◉ Import duties and taxes are the responsibility of the customer upon delivery.
