Bonsai Tables

The Significance of a Bonsai Display Table

A bonsai display table is meant to enhance the beauty of your bonsai. In Japan, bonsais are often presented in the Tokonoma, which is a decorative alcove. Many Japanese households have a "family" bonsai that has been nurtured and developed within the family for generations, and it is displayed on special occasions in the Tokonoma.

The bonsai display table should not distract attention from the bonsai but should complement it harmoniously. Harmony is the key word here. The color, shape, and size of the bonsai display table should be coordinated with the bonsai. The color of the bonsai display table should ideally be found somewhere in the bonsai, such as the color of the tree's trunk or its flowers or fruits.

When it comes to the shape of the bonsai table, it's best to avoid strong contrasts between the bonsai table and the bonsai itself. If the bonsai is delicate, the table should also be delicate. The legs of the bonsai table should not strongly contrast with the bonsai. For example, if the bonsai display table has very sturdy legs while the bonsai has a thin, delicate trunk, it may create an unbalanced look.

Regarding the size of the bonsai display table, ensure that the bonsai and its pot do not extend beyond the edges of the table. Many bonsai display tables have an outer frame on top, with an inner surface. Ideally, the bonsai pot should be placed within this inner area. This way, the bonsai presents itself harmoniously on the table.

These guidelines are intended to assist you in selecting a bonsai display table. Feel free to contact us, and we'll be happy to provide guidance. However, in my opinion, the most important rule is that you should personally like the bonsai display table. It's your bonsai, and you should take pleasure in seeing it on your bonsai display table.

Here are some inspirations on how bonsai tables can enhance the beauty of your bonsai:

Presentation of a Japanese White Pine on a bonsai table in the Tokonoma

The story the bonsai artist wishes to express with this arrangement could be...

High in the mountains, an old Scots Pine stands, its branches reaching toward the valley. Deep in the valley, a small plant with delicate leaves grows, perhaps symbolizing a small forest. Perhaps a small river flows between the two plants.

...these are just some thoughts about the composition, but every viewer is free to develop their own story about the arrangement. This freedom of thought and diversity of interpretations make bonsai an exciting topic for many.

Presentation of a Chinese Elm on a bonsai table in the living room

While the presentation of a bonsai in the Tokonoma emphasizes the artist's overall arrangement, bonsais can also be presented very effectively on bonsai tables in living spaces.

The bonsai table can be chosen to harmonize not only with the bonsai and the bonsai pot but also with the interior design. Even though presenting a bonsai outside of the Tokonoma is less formal, I like the idea that when choosing the table, you are still seeking appealing harmony between the bonsai, pot, bonsai table, and the immediate surroundings.

Bonsai tables can also be wonderfully used for other treasures and souvenirs from distant lands

We received a nice email from a satisfied customer who uses the Takahashi rosewood bonsai table to display a beautiful Shiva figurine from India.

As he wrote to us, he brought this Indian deity back from a vacation in India many years ago. He associates this figure with wonderful memories of a fascinating country with many facets and contrasts.

To enhance the beauty of this "Auspicious One," as it translates from Sanskrit, he had been searching for a suitable display table for a long time until he saw this bonsai display table in our shop.

We are delighted that our rosewood bonsai display table has become part of this tasteful arrangement and hope that it brings back many beautiful memories of India.