Kazan Zanketsu Bonsan
Image: Imperial Household Museum (Public domain)
NameKazan Zanketsu Bonsan
Species NameN/A - Not a living plant
Common NameN/A - Not a living plant
Bonsai Styleliterati
Estimated Age (years)1250
Container TypeNot visible
Geographic Originasia
Cultivation Difficultyexpert
Trunk Featuresweathered wood, jagged forms, spire-like elements, deadwood
Foliage TypeNone
Height (cm)Unknown
Nebari (Root Flare) QualityN/A - Not a living plant
Notable FeaturesAncient Shōsōin treasure; made of wood and silver; represents a miniature landscape (bonsan) rather than a living tree.
Description
This ancient art object, known as Kazan Zanketsu, is a remnant of a bonsan (miniature landscape) from the 8th century. It is composed of weathered wood and silver, forming a rugged, spire-like miniature mountain range. This Shōsōin treasure represents a highly stylized and abstract natural scene.
