Author: Smet, Peter A.G.M. De & Ian Reader.
Title: Health-related votive tablets from Japan. Ema for healing and well-being.
Description: [Leiden], Leiden Publications (Leiden University Press), [ 2017]. 240 pp. Col. & b./w. ills. Softcover (pictorial stiff paper wrappers). Many Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples in Japan sell small wooden votive tablets (ema) which are meant to be left on a rack at the sanctuary. The reverse of these tablets offers space to send a self-written wish or personal thank you message to the enshrined deity or buddha. Their front usually has a pre-printed or hand-painted design that is indicative of the intended purpose. In this book hundreds of contemporary ema designs for health-related purposes are reproduced and placed into their religious and biomedical context. A final chapter explores why there are differences between these purposes and current epidemiological patterns. This is the first book in English on the long-standing tradition of ema.

Keywords: Asian art Japon Aziatische kunst Japan