TOKONOMA Meaning and
Definition
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Tokonoma is a traditional Japanese architectural feature that refers to a small raised alcove within a room, specifically designed to display and exhibit a variety of artistic or decorative items. Commonly found in traditional Japanese homes, especially in tea houses and formal areas like reception rooms, the tokonoma holds great cultural and aesthetic significance.
Typically located at the center of a wall, the tokonoma is adorned with a decorative panel or a hanging scroll called a kakejiku. This panel often showcases calligraphy, paintings, or prints, chosen carefully to coincide with the seasons, occasions, or personal preferences. In front of the panel, there is usually a small shelf or platform known as the tana, on which different objects, such as ceramics, flowers, or sculptures, are meticulously arranged. These objects are chosen to complement and enhance the visual appeal of the panel, creating a harmonious and balanced display.
The tokonoma serves as a focal point in a room, symbolizing a place of honor and respect. It embodies the Japanese principles of wabi-sabi, simplicity, and understated elegance. The emphasis lies in creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere that encourages contemplation and appreciation of art and nature. As a space for introspection and reflection, the tokonoma invites guests to engage in a dialogue with the displayed art, fostering a sense of mindfulness and spirituality.
Overall, the tokonoma embodies the essence of Japanese aesthetics, blending art, architecture, and nature into a harmonious composition that is both visually appealing and spiritually enriching.
Common Misspellings for TOKONOMA
- rokonoma
- fokonoma
- gokonoma
- yokonoma
- 6okonoma
- 5okonoma
- tikonoma
- tkkonoma
- tlkonoma
- tpkonoma
- t0konoma
- t9konoma
- tojonoma
- tomonoma
- tolonoma
- tooonoma
- toionoma
- tokinoma
- tokknoma
- toklnoma
Etymology of TOKONOMA
The word "tokonoma" (床の間) has its roots in the Japanese language. It is composed of two kanji characters: "toko" (床), meaning "floor" or "platform", and "ma" (間), meaning "space" or "room".
The concept of a "tokonoma" originated during the Muromachi period (1336-1573) in Japan, when the tea ceremony and Zen Buddhism were developing. Initially, it referred to a small recessed space in the floor where a small Buddhist altar was placed. However, as Japanese culture evolved, the meaning of "tokonoma" expanded to encompass a wider architectural and artistic concept.
In traditional Japanese homes or tea houses, the tokonoma is a raised alcove built into a wall.
