Japanese Antique 20.5in Ema Votive Tablet Horse Painting Wood Shrine Art Temple
Description
■ Description Item Details This is a magnificent and unusually large Japanese Ema (Votive Horse Tablet). Measuring over 52cm in width, it is a substantial piece of traditional shrine art. Subject (The Horse): The painting depicts a spirited horse galloping dynamically. Distinctive Feature: The horse is brown with two distinctive white bands (stripes) around its torso. While the exact origin of this pattern is unique, it likely represents a "Shinme" (Sacred Horse) adorned with ceremonial white bands or stylized white girths to emphasize its holiness. In Shinto tradition, horses were dedicated to shrines as messengers of the gods, often to pray for rain or clear weather. Inscriptions (Kanji): Top: "Hō-Kishin" (奉寄進) - Meaning "Votive Offering" or "Donation to the Shrine." Note: Personal names or details of the dedicator have been omitted from this description for privacy. Size & Weight Width: approx. 52.3 cm / 20.59 in Height: approx. 31.5 cm / 12.40 in Thickness: approx. 2.8 cm / 1.10 in Weight: 760 g / 1.67 lbs Condition Condition: Antique / Rustic General: Shows signs of significant age and weathering, as it was likely displayed at a shrine. Painting: The pigments are worn and faded, creating a beautiful, historical "Wabi-sabi" patina. The wood has a deep, aged color. Please check the photos to appreciate the unique artistic style and condition.