This set of vertical Tanzaku calligraphy cards captures traditional Japanese well-wishing expressions and seasonal imagery associated with the zodiac. Each tanzaku features hand-brushed kanji paired with a delicately painted animal illustration symbolizing a specific year in the Japanese zodiac cycle. These works combine auspicious words and fine painting, perfect for New Year or celebratory displays.
百年如意 (Hyakunen Nyo-i) “May your wishes come true for a hundred years.” This expression conveys a heartfelt wish for long-lasting happiness and fulfillment. The painting below shows a gray mouse perched beside a gold coin inscribed with 「寶」(treasure), referencing the zodiac year of the Rat, a symbol of cleverness and prosperity. Created for the Year of the Rat (e.g., Showa 59 / 1984).
壽如山 (Jū Yama no Gotoku) “May your longevity be like a mountain.” A wish for enduring life and stability, likening it to the immovable strength of a mountain. Below the calligraphy, two white rabbits rest on the grass — a tender motif connected with the Year of the Rabbit, symbolizing peace, purity, and renewal. This tanzaku was created in Showa 62 (1987), another Rabbit year.
福與壽 (Fuku to Ju) “Fortune and longevity.” A classic pairing of two fundamental blessings in East Asian culture: happiness (福) and long life (寿). The accompanying illustration features a wild boar resting near pine and plum blossoms, all symbols of strength, vitality, and seasonal celebration. The boar corresponds to the Year of the Boar, suggesting a date Showa 58 (1983). These tanzaku form a harmonious trio rich in seasonal sentiment and poetic optimism, ideal for collectors of Japanese calligraphy, zodiac motifs, or New Year’s art.
