Swords into plowshares, a very interesting adaptation of four sets of Kusazuri scales (from the thigh protection of an Edo period Samurai armor) converted into the walls of this deep tray. The outside of the nerikawa scales appears to be leather and shows lacing holding the metal ridge inside under caramel colored lacquer. Inside they have been gilded in genuine gold. They are inset into four pillars rising from the corners of the base, covered in black lacquer. The original lacing holes are clearly visible. The tray is 19.5 x 20.5 x 14 cm (roughly 8 inches square, 5-1/2 inches tall) and in overall excellent condition.
