Peony Botan Temple Ranma: Early Shōwa Carved Transom from Niigata (牡丹欄間・昭和初期)

Peony Blossom Temple Ranma – Hand-Carved Early Shōwa Transom from Niigata

This antique ranma (欄間) was recovered from a historic Buddhist temple in the snowy mountains of Niigata, where it graced a ceremonial hall for nearly a century. Carved during the early Shōwa period (c. 1926–1940s), it embodies the quiet spiritual atmosphere, botanical elegance, and craftsmanship that defined temple architecture of the era.

The entire panel is sculpted in deep relief with peonies (botan) - the revered “King of Flowers” in Japanese culture - depicted with layered petals and flowing leaves.

This is not décor.
This is a sacred architectural artifact; an heirloom that carries the patina of devotion, winter light, and time.

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Why This Piece Is Exceptional

Authentic Temple Provenance: Recovered directly from a Buddhist hall in Niigata Prefecture.

Deep Botanical Relief Carving: Complex petal layering and naturalistic foliage shaped entirely by hand.

Early Shōwa Craftsmanship: Created during a period that preserved pre-war carving traditions.

Beautiful Aged Patina: Soft darkening from incense, candle soot, and seasonal humidity; tangible proof of its spiritual life.

Collector-Grade Character: Natural age lines and oxidation, yet structurally strong and display-ready.

Versatile Display: Ideal for Japandi, wabi-sabi, organic modern, or spiritual interiors.

Verified Authenticity: Includes a Certificate of Authenticity from a licensed Japanese antiques dealer.

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Symbolism & Meaning

In Japanese and Buddhist aesthetics, the peony (牡丹 / botan) symbolizes:

• prosperity and abundance
• noble character and dignity
• refined beauty
• resilience and courage to bloom after hardship

In cold, snowy regions like Niigata, botan carvings traditionally represented the return of good fortune after winter, making this motif especially meaningful in temple settings.

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Dimensions

Approx. [W] 120 cm × [H] 46 cm × [D] 10 cm

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Material & Craftsmanship

• Hand-carved hardwood typical of temple ornamentation
• Early Shōwa period (approx. 80–100 years old)
• Original frame with period-correct patina
• Deep-relief carving with excellent botanical detailing
• Naturally aged finish with incense-worn coloration

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Display & Use

This ranma can be displayed as:

• Wall art in a living room, hallway, or entrance
• A statement piece above a sofa or console
• A sculptural headboard accent
• A focal point in hotels, restaurants, galleries, or spas
• Part of a curated Japanese or Japandi interior

Its warm tone and natural patina pair beautifully with minimalist, Scandinavian, wabi-sabi, and organic modern spaces.

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White-Glove Worldwide Shipping

Your piece ships directly from Japan with museum-grade packing, full insurance, and express international courier delivery (DHL/UPS or equivalent).

We handle every detail:

• expert antique-safe packing
• custom or double-boxed shock protection
• full-value insurance
• end-to-end tracking
• customs support if needed

Shipping is not included in the list price.
Rates are calculated separately based on your location, the size of the crate, and the insured value of the piece.

Import duties and VAT, if applicable, are assessed by your country’s customs office and are the responsibility of the recipient.

Your piece is a cultural treasure. We ship it accordingly.

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What’s Included

• Certificate of Authenticity (COA) issued by Tsujirushi, our licensed antique dealer in Fukushima, Japan
• Care & preservation guide
• Provenance documentation (Niigata temple origin)
• Optional mounting guidance

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Price

$5,698 USD
Only 1 available.

Payment methods: Card, PayPal, bank transfer.
Are you a private collector or design studio? If so, please email sales@japanesetransoms.com.