Japanese Wooden Temple Board ‘Kokoro’ with Calligraphy, 1895

Impressive antique Japanese temple board in solid wood, once hung in a Buddhist temple or Shinto shrine as a dedication or votive plaque.

In bold black brushstrokes the large central character 心 (kokoro – heart, mind, soul) is written, surrounded by names and a date: the 28th year of the Meiji era, corresponding to 1895.

Dimensions: height 40 cm, width 67 cm, depth 3 cm.

The board is cut from a single wide plank with beautifully flowing grain in warm honey and chestnut-brown tones. A slim red-lacquered border with softly profiled corners runs around the edge. The wood shows clear traces of more than a century of temple life – small holes, age cracks and a damaged corner – which only enhance its authenticity.

In an interior this temple board works as a strong graphic accent. It looks wonderful casually leaned against a wall on a sideboard or shelf, or hung as a wall piece above a table, in a hallway or among ceramics and books. The combination of lively wood grain, red border and expressive calligraphy instantly brings a calm, spiritual Japanese atmosphere into the room.

A remarkable 19th-century temple piece that naturally unites history, calligraphy and honest material.