Shell Inlay Checkered Pattern Dinner Plate

This stunning plate is made by Yatsuyanagi, a manufacturer of cherry bark work from Akita Prefecture. It features delicate cherry blossom decorations using light-colored cherry bark and shell inlays, set against a meticulously crafted checkerboard pattern for a traditional feel.

The size is ideal for serving sweets and light meals in a sophisticated setting. It is also suitable for placing sake cups, accessories, and other tiny items when set on a table. Colorful confections and small tableware stand out beautifully on the natural hue of the cherry bark.

The cherry trees used for Akita cherry bark work are mainly wild cherry trees from the Tohoku region, which grow in a harsh climate and are said to be beautiful and durable. The cherry bark is carefully peeled off from the trunk and left to dry in the shade for a year or two to remove the moisture.