This is a fabulous decorated goban. It came to BadukClub from a resale shop in Niigata, Japan.
This wood was cut in the Shihou-masa style (rift-sawn). This provides the maximum dimensional stability and produces straight lines on all the surfaces. The decoration of hawks perching and fishing is a familiar one, usually reserved for boards covered in black lacquer.
Some white wax residue on the sides and bottom is a good sign - this protective layer shows that it has been cared for and can easily be cleaned up with a dry cotton cloth.
Although the woodgrain features high density, this board is most likely Shinkaya. The legs are a warmer color and they are probably Katsura, but they feature a double shoulder which is a good sign of quality. Other top-quality indicators are the precise navel and the tachimori grid (raised lacquer).
This is a vintage board so there are some incidental marks. Small dents from a lifetime of play cannot be helped.
Shipping Details:
Airmail shipping from Japan is already included in the price, but you will be responsible for any tariffs or VAT imposed by your country. Please allow a week for handling, then another week for transit.
