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Japanese Antique Wabi-Sabi Weathered Keyaki Wood Block 1900s-1940s / Figurine
$800
£604.44
€693.02
CA$1,116.49
A$1,214.83
CHF 643.24
MX$14,615.21
NOK 8,167.67
SEK 7,472.85
DKK 5,177.85
About the Item
This is an antique, weathered block of Japanese keyaki (zelkova) wood. It is estimated to date from the early 1900s to the 1940s. Its form, shaped over many decades, carries a presence reminiscent of a natural sculpture created entirely by the elements. Exposed to rain, wind, cycles of humidity and dryness, and harsh outdoor environments, the wood has gently eroded over time. As a result, the surface now bears deep, intricate lines and folds—like natural wrinkles—giving it an expressive character akin to a cross-section of the earth’s strata.
Although weathered, it shows no significant insect damage or major deterioration. The interior still retains its density and strength, allowing the piece to convey not just age but also the enduring vitality of seasoned material. The organic shapes formed by natural processes, the accidental curves and fissures, and the inherent heaviness of keyaki all come together to create a rare object full of narrative and depth—one single block holding a long story within it.
Simply placing it in a room gives it the presence of an art piece. It harmonizes beautifully not only with Japanese interiors but also with industrial and modern spaces. It can be used freely as a bookend, object, pedestal, or sculptural accent—the possibilities are open-ended. The play of light and shadow across its textured surface creates shifting expressions, offering new discoveries each time it is viewed.
This piece embodies the Japanese spirit of wabi-sabi, which values naturalness and the beauty of time’s passage. It is a unique object with a quiet yet powerful presence—something no human hand could ever replicate.
Weight: 10.5 kg
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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.
- Similar to:Axel Vervoordt (Designer)
- Dimensions:Height: 12.6 in (32 cm)Width: 12.41 in (31.5 cm)Depth: 5.91 in (15 cm)
- Style:Primitive (In the Style Of)
- Materials and Techniques:Wood,Woodwork
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1900s-1940s
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:Chōsei District Nagara, JP
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU10403247731062
About the Seller
4.8
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Established in 2017
1stDibs seller since 2025
68 sales on 1stDibs
Typical response time: 2 hours
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: Chōsei District Nagara, Japan
- Return Policy
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