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Japanese Antique Wabi-Sabi Wooden board "Wall Decoration" 1860s-1900s

$1,500
£1,163.06
€1,319.70
CA$2,150.19
A$2,338.02
CHF 1,231.91
MX$28,400.17
NOK 15,487.58
SEK 14,518.35
DKK 9,903.23

About the Item

This is an old Japanese wooden workboard Crafted during the Meiji period (1860s–1900s), it is made from a single slab of keyaki (zelkova wood), a material now extremely rare. The impressive width of the grain suggests that it once came from a massive old tree. This board was originally used as a kneading surface for wheat flour. Over the decades, its surface has been naturally polished by use, while the pale central area remains as a trace of flour that once covered it. Subtle hand-tool marks are still visible, creating delicate linear patterns that quietly speak of time and human touch. The outer edges have darkened to a deep, charred tone, blending beautifully with the pale center and the warm amber hues characteristic of keyaki wood. Together they form a natural gradation of color—like an abstract painting whose mood changes depending on the angle of view. Beyond its former function, the board now possesses the beauty of a landscape. Despite being a single plank, it shows no warping and remains remarkably stable. Iron clamps (kasugai) were once added to prevent splitting, their aged metal patina harmonizing with the wood’s warmth to create a cool, understated presence. These traces of repair add depth and dignity to the piece, revealing the long life it has endured. In modern times, it is nearly impossible to obtain such a large slab of solid zelkova, and even rarer to find one with this kind of profound patina. It can be displayed on a wall as an art piece, where its quiet contrast of tones and textures will bring a calm yet powerful atmosphere to any space. A work that transcends utility, embodying the Japanese spirit of wabi-sabi—beauty found in imperfection and time. Weight: 12.5 kg ________________________________ Our Philosophy Objects always tell the truth. All I can do is just to face with them sincerely and give them deep affection as much as I can. There is no boundary of nationalities and of eras in beauty. But I think now is the time we choose 'Japanese style' and it will be the best way to remind us of what we are losing today and to question us about an essence of beauty again. I hope that you can touch the memories which the objects here have, feel and think of something invisible but exists undoubtedly.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 33.27 in (84.5 cm)Width: 40.16 in (102 cm)Depth: 0.99 in (2.5 cm)
  • Style:
    Meiji (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Wood,Woodwork
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1860s-1900s
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Chōsei District Nagara, JP
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU10403247083832

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