Tray

Shibayama is a type of decorative inlay in which fine pieces of shell, ivory, tortoise shell, coral, bone, and other materials form a pictorial relief pattern on wood, lacquer, ivory, or other medium. The style is named for the family of Shibayama Senzo, who originated it, but encompasses the work of competitors and imitators.

The restrained style and the conservative subject of the seven sages of the bamboo grove mark this tray as one of the finer, perhaps earlier pieces by the Shibayama family. Although signed solely "Shibayama," it may be the work of the master himself. The rich and intricate inlay of the sages' robes, some bamboo leaves, and other details contrasts beautifully with the otherwise open appearance of the scene.

"Dallas Museum of Art: A Guide to the Collection," page 49