Stone of the Month: 

November 2023 

"Coming and Going"

By Thomas Elias

This Japanese stone from the Tama River on the main island of Hanshu was formed when a larger stone fractured concentrically into various curved fragments. Turning the fragment on its side evokes the feeling of a boat. The sense that this suggests a boat is enhanced with a contemporary style carved rosewood base by Harada Kazuya. The bow of the boat (left) is plowing through the water, while the stern (right) leaves a wake trailing behind the vessels as it moves through the water. The base was designed specifically to indicate movement.

This active scene can be interpreted as the passage of time in one’s life. It can also be viewed as the experiences one encounters when moving from one location to a distant place. This stone is 21 cm wide, 13 cm high, and 8 cm deep, and is in the private collection of Thomas S. Elias and Hirom Nakaoji.