Nojiri Plaque
The Japanese are very conscious of space and will often use it as a
design element, either to bring focus to other elements or to
allow simplicity to make its own statement (in a way the Shakers
probably would have appreciated).
This plaque was made for presentation to a Japanese family (the
characters express the name "Nojiri"). The stylized jaggedness top
and bottom evokes a common Japanese edging technique; the expanse of
open wood allows the eye to appreciate the figure of the grain and
balances the complexity of the characters; the borders accentuate
the verticality of the script. A deep slot chiseled into the back
allows it to hang completely flush with the wall.
This piece measures approximately 6"x16" and is done in walnut and
linden.
