Dongyue Taizu / Mt. Tai & Spring Art / Silver-Leaf Washi・Hinoki

■ Bringing the Culture of Mount Tai, the Foremost of the Five Sacred Mountains, into Modern Life In China, there is a cultural tradition surrounding the “Five Sacred Mountains” (Wuyue / 五岳), five renowned mountains symbolizing the East, West, South, North, and Center. Among them, Mount Tai in the East is regarded as the foremost of the Five Sacred Mountains and has long been closely associated with nature, directions, imperial culture, mountain worship, and Taoist traditions. The deity of Mount Tai was known in ancient times by names such as “Taishan Fujun” and was later worshipped as the “Great Emperor of the Eastern Peak.” This figure has traditionally been associated with the cycle of life and death, longevity, fortune and prosperity, and peace and stability throughout life. Inspired by the history of Mount Tai, the culture of the Five Sacred Mountains, and the imagery of spring, life, and new beginnings traditionally associated with the East, this work reinterprets a traditional figure as a handmade art piece designed to fit naturally into contemporary living spaces. ■ Dongyue Taizu Cangguang Zhenjun Yuzhenfu | Origins and Tradition “Dongyue Taizu Cangguang Zhenjun Yuzhenfu” (Eastern Peak Great Ancestor Cangguang Zhenjun Talisman) is one of the traditional talismanic forms associated with the culture of the Five Sacred Mountains and Mount Tai, with roots in Taoist talisman traditions. Historical talismanic texts include this talisman among a group of talismans related to the Five Sacred Mountains, along with talismans associated with the “Azure Emperor,” a figure symbolizing the East. These traditions reflect a Taoist worldview closely connected with directions, the Five Elements, and concepts of nature. For this artwork, the traditions of Mount Tai worship, the culture of the Five Sacred Mountains, and Taoist talismanic art are combined with imagery inspired by the idea of Eastern light and vitality suggested by the name “Cangguang,” and reinterpreted as an art piece suitable for modern interiors. ■ Traditional Wishes and Symbolism Beliefs surrounding Mount Tai have historically been associated with wishes concerning longevity, fortune and prosperity, status, wealth, official advancement, and peace and stability throughout life. In contemporary talismanic traditions, this talisman is also associated with wishes for career advancement, business development, financial prosperity, abundance in daily life, longevity, the fulfillment of aspirations, and stability in life. This artwork does not guarantee any specific effect or outcome. Rather, it is intended to be appreciated as a work that brings into everyday life the traditional hopes for prosperity, peace, well-being, and new beginnings that people have cherished for generations. ■ The Quiet Radiance of Silver-Foil Washi This piece is handmade one by one using traditional Japanese washi paper decorated with silver foil. The soft texture of washi harmonizes with the delicate shimmer of silver foil, creating a calm yet dignified appearance. Because the appearance of the silver foil changes depending on the angle of the light, you can enjoy different expressions depending on where and when the piece is displayed. Variations in the silver foil, washi texture, and overall finish are unique to each piece and are part of the charm of handmade craftsmanship. ■ Bringing the Story of the East into Everyday Spaces The included stand made from domestically produced Japanese cypress allows the piece to be displayed in your entryway, living room, study, bedroom, workspace, or any other place of your choice. Its compact size also makes it easy to carry in a wallet, bag, or pouch and enjoy as a small personal art piece. You may keep it with treasured belongings, carry it when going out, or incorporate it into your lifestyle in a way that feels natural to you. With its connection to Mount Tai and the symbolic imagery of the East, this design is especially suited to moments of new beginnings, such as starting a new lifestyle, beginning a new job, learning something new, or reaching an important turning point in life. Combining silver-foil washi with Japanese cypress, the piece retains an East Asian traditional atmosphere while blending naturally into contemporary interiors ranging from natural and simple to modern and refined. It also makes a thoughtful gift for those interested in Chinese culture, Taoism, the Five Sacred Mountains, Mount Tai, mountain traditions, ancient imagery, or story-rich interior art. ■ Mitaka Mikata | Our Craftsmanship Mitaka Mikata looks to the cultures, imagery, and views of nature that have been passed down through Japan and East Asia, reinterpreting stories with long histories into works that harmonize with modern everyday life. Each piece is handcrafted using silver-foil washi, from the hand-written lettering to the final finishing touches. A 150 μm laminate coating is applied for added durability, and the piece is paired with a stand made from domestically produced Japanese cypress, creating a compact work that is easy to display and carry. ※ This work is a handmade art piece inspired by the traditions of the Five Sacred Mountains, Mount Tai, Taoist talismanic culture, and the traditional transmission of the “Dongyue Taizu Cangguang Zhenjun Yuzhenfu.” ※ References to traditional blessings or spiritual meanings are presented as cultural and historical context. This work does not guarantee any specific effect, financial gain, business success, improvement in health, or any other particular outcome. ※ As each piece is handmade individually, there may be variations in the shimmer of the silver foil, the texture of the washi, and the grain and color of the Japanese cypress. These differences are part of the unique character of handmade craftsmanship.