How far back does the idea of a Tokonoma go?

Tokonoma first appeared in the late Muromachi period (14th-16th c). It consisted of a wall space where scrolls would be hung, with a raised dais for items such as an incense burner, vase for flowers, and candle holder. The items in the Tokonoma, or alcove, of a traditional Japanese teahouse, set the mood and become a conversation point or theme of the tea ceremony. Items might include: a calligraphy scroll with a poetic or Zen phrase to begin the dialog between host and guests.

Daily Zen’s contribution takes this concept into our times with the original calligraphy laser engraved into birch. Our first offering of this a new line of meditative gifts presents Enter in Peace.