Skip to main content
Views:
1/3

Tray Table (Soban)

19th century
Artist/maker unknown, Korean
The red lacquer on this tray table (soban) indicates that it might have been produced for use in a Korean palace. Sobans were designed to carry and serve an individual portion of a meal. Typically, a given household owned several such trays, ready to serve a sumptuous meal to their guests or to members of their large, extended family. These trays vary in design and size depending on the region of production or the specifications of a client.

Object Details

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.