Antique Japanese Tobako Bon Paulownia Wood 🐞

Antique Japanese Tobako Bon/paulownia wood, Maki-e lacquer Tabako Bon Tobacco smokers tray for Kiseru pipes. Commonly used in the Edo Period. Using this tray was the only way to smoke tobacco until cigarettes became available in 1872, after the Portuguese traders first introduced tobacco to Japan in the 16th century. The porcelain, ceramic or copper tray held burning charcoal, which was used to light the shredded tobacco leaves put into the tip of the kiseru pipe. After smoking, ash was thrown into the bamboo tube by tapping the Kiseru on the edge of it. An amazing find. Highly collectible for the craftsmanship and historical artifacts. This piece has a porcelain tray and a bamboo tube. Beautiful paulownia wood with enamel inlays on the top and to the front and two chrome handles. Good condition considering the age. No issues. Any wear commensurates with the age. Approximately 7 1/3” in diameter and 3.5” tall not including the handles.