Vintage Japanese Cast Iron Incense Tray. “Pine, Bamboo, and Plum” 9.25x2.5x1inch For Sale

Vintage Japanese Nambu Tekki cast iron ashtray or incense burner, featuring a dark mottled green finish and inscribed kanji characters in a recessed center.The Japanese characters inscribed on the center of the tray read 松竹梅 (pronounced Shōchikubai). The literal English translation is "Pine, Bamboo, and Plum". In Japanese culture, this traditional trio is collectively known as the "Three Friends of Winter" (Saikan San'yū). They represent an auspicious grouping used to symbolize resilience, good fortune, and enduring strength.