A stunning traditional Japanese granite zenigata chôzu’bachi 銭形手水鉢 (water basin) shaped like an ancient coin. The cylindrical basin has a square water pool in the center, surrounded by four stylized kanji 漢字 (Chinese characters) on the top surface: 吾 (ware - I), 唯 (tada - solely), 足 (taru – enough), 知 (shiru - to know). The square pool itself symbolizes the kanji 口 (kuchi – mouth). This combination of characters forms a Zen phrase that translates to, "I am content with what I have," or "One who knows contentment is truly rich in spirit." This inscription is a common feature on water basins throughout Japan. Chôzu'bachi, also known as a hand-washing water basin, is an essential element of traditional Japanese gardens. Beyond its aesthetic function, it serves a practical purpose in ritual purification, used for washing hands and rinsing the mouth. This practice, known as tsukubai 蹲, is performed to cleanse oneself before entering a tea room or sacred space, such as a Buddhist temple or Shinto shrine. The chôzu'bachi highlights the cultural value placed on cleanliness and spiritual readiness in Japanese customs. A famous example of a water basin with this design can be seen in the garden of Ryôan’ji 竜安寺, one of Kyoto's most renowned Zen temples. Dimensions: Height 28.5 cm, Diameter 47.3 cm. The age of such a stone item is difficult to determine. We think that this one is carved during the Meiji period (1868-1912). It has a nice outdoorsy patina. It is in a very good original condition. Please look at the photos for a condition reference. For shipping we will use a wooden pallet and good packing for safe transport. When shipped we will also add a certificate of authenticity.