Vintage Japanese Wooden Shrine Plaque, Ema

Ema is a small wooden plaque used at Shinto, and sometimes Buddhist shrines, that worshippers can write their wishes, hopes, and dreams on. Once written, it is hung on a special wooden stand or tree where the kami (spirits or gods) are thought to receive them. 
This ema plaque has a picture of Benzaiten strumming her biwa lute on a white snake ship. She is one of the Seven Lucky Gods (shichifukujin) and represents kindness. The sail on her ship says “treasure”. This ema also features a white snake, one of the zodiac animals. Zodiac animal imagery is popular around the New Year. It also features a purple braided cord.

• Kanji on ema: Nagaratenjin jinja (Nagaratenjin shrine), Kaiun (better fortune)
• Brown, red, white, blue
• Wood
• C1970
• Item weight: 92 grams
• Packed weight: 292 grams
• Approx. 17.5 cm wide x 11.5 cm tall x 1 cm thick
• Good condition considering its age. Scratches. Wear and tear due to age. Please see the photos.
• We acquired this item from an old family estate sale in Nagoya, Japan

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About Us: We are Dan and Maiko. Since moving to Japan in 2001, we have gained a vast knowledge of Japanese antiques and vintage items. We are excited to offer you a delightful glimpse of the beauty that Japan has to offer. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.