Toshio Tokunaga Japanese, b. 1952
KOZA CHAIR (Thinking Chair)
Japanese Zelkova and camelia
H26 5/8 x W23 5/8 x D19 3/4 in
H67.5 x W60 x D50 cm
Seat Height: 15 in
H67.5 x W60 x D50 cm
Seat Height: 15 in
C24175
Copyright The Artist
Further images
Zelkova is a hardwood typical in East Asia. Avenues and roads with zelkova along the sides are familiar scenery in any part of Japan. The tree shape is an inverted triangle and may look like a bloom or a frame. Large and freely extended into the sky, The Japanese word for zelkova, "keyaki," comes from the word "keyakeki," which means prominent or outstanding. Zelkova is celebrated as lumber, too, with its glorious pattern, strong presence, and deepening color of brown. It sure is a unique ring-porous wood of Japan. Notice the thin, light camelia wood balanced in the center of the chair's back. The addition of this delicate moment is unique to this particular chair. This seat is intended for one's body to be lowered to the ground as one sits, meditates, and prays humbly, perfect for tea ceremonies or centering one's body to become closer to the earth itself.
