A finely worked carved lacquer confectionery tray by Living National Treasure Otomaru Kōdō, enclosed in the original signed wooden box titled Chōshitsu Kamon Kashibon (Carved Lacquer Floral-Pattern Confectionery Tray), together with a fitted protective pouch and outer box. Against a deep blue ground, rows of four-petaled blossoms form a remarkably ordered geometric pattern, punctuated by delicate gold star-like motifs. Each pale flower is individually carved through successive layers of lacquer, the concentric strata visible within the petals creating subtle variations of cream and ivory, while touches of reddish brown and black articulate their centers. Toward the center of the composition several blossoms become increasingly complex, their layered markings expanding into concentric rings and providing a quiet focal point within the otherwise repeating design. The precision of the pattern is softened by the minute variations inherent in carving each element by hand, giving the surface a gentle rhythm despite its strict geometry. The shallow square form rises slightly toward its rounded black-lacquered edges, with a plain black reverse and raised square foot. It measures 28 x 28 x 2.8 cm (11 x 11 x 1-1/8 inches) and is in excellent condition.
Otomaru Kodo (1898-1987) was a distinguished Japanese lacquer artist renowned for his mastery of choshitsu (carved lacquer) techniques. Born in Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture, he began his apprenticeship under Ishii Keido in 1910 and, from 1914, independently studied the works of Tamakaji Zokoku, a pioneer of Sanuki lacquer art. In 1921, Otomaru co-founded the art group Kofukai with metalcraft artist Osuga Takashi and others, actively participating in exhibitions. His work gained significant recognition in 1932 when he was first accepted into the Imperial Art Exhibition (Teiten), leading to regular displays in subsequent exhibitions. In 1942, his carved-lacquer piece, "Cosmetic box with moon-flower design," received a special award at the 5th New Ministry of Education Art Exhibition; this work is now part of the Takamatsu Art Museum's collection. Otomaru's innovative use of rich colors set his work apart. While traditional lacquerware primarily utilized vermillion, black, yellow, green, and brown, he introduced new pigments to achieve a broader spectrum of hues, enhancing the expressiveness of his designs. In recognition of his contributions to Japanese crafts, Otomaru was designated an Important Intangible Cultural Property holder (Living National Treasure) in 1955, specifically in the carved-lacquer division. That same year, he played a pivotal role in establishing the Japan Kōgei Association, further influencing the development of traditional Japanese crafts.
