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Hi -

Pictured is what I think is a Japanese printing block. It is a single piece of wood, about 6 inches by 9 inches (15x23cm), and is carved on both sides. The overall appearance of each side is of a Rosetta stone, with Chinese characters in clear script and then cursive, possibly Japanese (??), interpreting the characters or clarifying the content. The wood is mostly solid but has old worm holes and what is probably water rot on the edges that has ruined some of the characters.

I have included one image showing the two original sides, and mirror images of each side so they could be readable.

I realize this is a challenge. Still, I would appreciate any information you can provide on what this may have been used to print, when it might have been made, and what it says.

Thanks in advance.

Tom

The title in the upper margin reads 'Jizô-son' (the Revered Jizo).

Jizo Bodhisattva is in Japan the protector of travellers, women and children.

That's all I can add.

Guy.

A print block with buddhism texts, titled "地藏尊", which is Ksitigarbha - 1 of the 4 principal bodhisattvas in East Asia Buddhism. [In Japan, Ksitigarbha, known as Jizō, or Ojizō-sama as he is respectfully known, is one of the most loved of all Japanese divinities. His statues are a common sight, especially by roadsides and in graveyards. Traditionally, he is seen as the guardian of children, and in particular, children who died before their parents.] (wiki)

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