This beautiful wooden ema 絵馬 (votive plaque) comes from Yoshimizu Shrine (吉水神社) in Yoshino, Nara Prefecture, an important sacred site deeply connected to Japan’s imperial and historical legacy.
The artwork honors Emperor Go-Daigo (後醍醐天皇) and the Empress of Yoshino (吉野皇后), depicted in courtly attire during their time of residence in exile in Yoshino. The background features graceful cherry blossoms (sakura) a poetic symbol of Yoshino, a region famous for its spring blooms and long-standing association with the Japanese imperial family and classical poetry.
The backside of the plaque features a waka poem (和歌) attributed to the Emperor or inspired by that era, written in traditional calligraphy, expressing longing, beauty, and seasonal reflection, common themes in classical Japanese poetry.
This ema is both a spiritual charm and a meaningful collector’s piece, capturing a moment from Japan’s imperial past with artistic elegance.
