Pre-WWII Japanese Carved Wood Round Tray Samurai Kabuto Helmet Dragon Motif

This is a large, hand-carved wooden round tray (marubon), likely produced in Japan during the early Showa period based on the remnants of an old paper label. It is carved from a single piece of wood and features an engraved maker's mark on the base.

The tray displays a high-relief, three-dimensional carving of a samurai kabuto helmet in the center. The helmet's side panels (fukikaeshi) are intricately carved with dragon and floral motifs, accented with small touches of blue coloring or inlay. The rim is decorated with geometric patterns, showing potential influence from northern Japanese indigenous designs. The reverse side intentionally retains bold, raw chisel marks, highlighting its sculptural, handmade character rather than a smoothed commercial finish.

Height: 8.0 cm / 3.14 in
Width: 45.5 cm / 17.91 in
Depth: 45.5 cm / 17.91 in
Weight: 1800 g / 3.96 lbs

The item is in vintage condition, showing signs of aging. There are minor scratches, scuffs, and small chips on the surface and along the rim. The back has remnants of an old auction or exhibition label.
Please check the photos carefully for details.