Monumental Japanese Architectural Temple Beams, 1700s, Set of 2

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Description

This exceptional set of two monumental wooden beams is an authentic architectural fragment from Japan, dating from the Edo period. … Read more This exceptional set of two monumental wooden beams is an authentic architectural fragment from Japan, dating from the Edo period. Originally, these heavy elements formed part of a roof or load-bearing structure, which is immediately evident from the pronounced construction cut-outs, traditional mortise-and-tenon joints, and the visible traces of earlier metal fittings.

Approximate dimensions per beam: thickness approx. 20 cm, length approx. 290 cm, widest section approx. 40 cm.

Through centuries of use and natural aging, the wood has developed a remarkable, deep patina. The surfaces reveal powerful grain patterns and flowing lines, interspersed with natural cavities, knots, old cracks, and darker areas that testify to the material’s long and intense history.

In a contemporary interior, these beams function as autonomous art objects with a strong architectural presence. They can be placed directly on the floor as a statement piece in a loft or minimalist space, installed against a wall as a sculptural element, or—depending on mounting and structural support—suspended as an impressive, floating object. They are particularly well suited to spacious entrance halls, galleries, showrooms, hospitality venues, or concept spaces where scale and materiality are meant to speak for themselves.
The beams are most likely made of hinoki (Japanese cypress), a traditional and highly prized building wood in Japan, long used in temple architecture for its durability, stability, and beautiful aging over time.

The metal trestles shown in some of the photographs are used for presentation purposes only and are not included. See less