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Add a beautiful touch of history to your home with this vintage Chinese hand-etched brass decorative tray. Dating back to the early-to-mid 20th century (circa 1920s–1940s), this rectangular tray was crafted as a high-quality export piece and features a classic Chinese folk motif.
The detailed, hand-hammered engraving depicts a young herder boy riding a water buffalo near a willow tree and a bridge, holding a long stick with a lotus flower blossom. The top right corner features the crisp calligraphy "牧童放牛" (Mù tóng fàng niú), translating to "The Cowherd Boy Pasturing the Cattle"—a traditional symbol of peace, harmony with nature, and innocence.
The back of the tray is stamped with the period-correct, hand-aligned "MADE IN CHINA" export mark. It features a wonderful, aged golden patina that beautifully catches the light and highlights the texture of the hand-chiseled background.
Perfect for use as a vanity tray, catchall on an entryway table, barware accent, or as a display piece in a Chinoiserie or Hollywood Regency styled room.
Dimensions:
* Length: just over 10.5 inches
* Width: just over 6.6 inches
* Rim Height: Approx. 0.25 inches
Condition:
Very good vintage condition with a beautiful, authentic patina.(Please see all photos for exact details)
