Tabakobon (tobacco tray)

This tray is from Kishu-Tokugawa family, one of the three privileged branches of Tokugawa shogun. The figure depicted on the side represents a deity of wealth called "Fukurokujyu" of Shichifukujin (Japanese seven deities of good fortune). On the other side, some cranes are depicted in maki-e. Both motifs are lucky symbols in Japan. The Chinese characters inlaid with various fonts stand for longevity and felicitations. The design of the tray suggests that it was used on celebratory occasions.