What types of Bonsai figurines are available?
What types of Bonsai figurines are available?Bonsai are beautiful miniature trees that are grown in pots but they are also an intricate art form from ancient China. Zen Buddhists first brought the trees to Japan and they were first grown as decorations for homes and gardens. At one time the Bonsai was a symbol of wealth and represented prestige and honour. Buddhist monks viewed the trees as symbols of peace, balance, and harmony between nature, man, and the soul.
The western world has embraced Bonsai trees and has discovered that these miniature works of art are not only decorative but often uniquely representative and evocative of a larger landscape. The potted tree usually reflect balance, simplicity and harmony. Often Bonsai figurines are placed next to the tree which enhances and personalizes the composition further. Contemporary and traditional figurines are available. Figurines are generally divided into three categories and can be made of glazed or unglazed earthenware. These categories are:
- Popular characters including historical, mythical, or religious figures that are intricately painted and glazed or unglazed. Depending on the composition of the miniature tree environment, some Bonsai figures may be representative of a scholar reading or holding a scroll. Bonsai landscapes that present isolation may present a contemplative figure sitting alone. Some Bonsai landscapes depict mountainous environments and figures are sitting on rocks. Other examples include a woman reclining or two people playing a game under a tree. The Bonsai atmosphere is the basis for the choice of figurine.
- Daily life figures may include houses, bridges, boats, etc. which miniaturize traditional Japanese gardens. In Japan, gardens are designed to inspire and calm the soul. Often, Japanese gardens have a pond, waterfall, pagoda, and curving bridges, rock filled streams, gazebo, and manicured trees. The beauty and tranquillity is recreated in the Bonsai tray landscape by the inclusion of figures traditionally found in a Japanese garden. These miniaturized landscapes evoke something larger when space is limited and gardens have to be brought inside.
- Animal figurines such as cranes, ducks, water buffalo, turtles, frogs, etc. are included to complete and compliment a Bonsai atmosphere. Many animals represent daily life and some are included because of their symbolic association. Cranes in Japan represent longevity and good fortune. Many different species of frogs live in Japan and due to their agricultural economy, the presence of frogs are considered to bring good fortune. Turtles are also associated with longevity.
When purchasing a figurine for your Bonsai, find the one that compliments the symbolism you hope to inspire. An important element of the art of Bonsai is its simplicity. The goal is to capture the essence of the tree and everything that is not needed in the design is cut out.