Daiza

The Japanese word "daiza" (台座) means "stand" or "base" and it is related to bonsai because it is the name of the wooden platform that supports the bonsai pot. A daiza is usually custom-made to fit the shape and size of the pot, and it enhances the aesthetic appeal of the bonsai display. A daiza can also be used to display other objects, such as stones, figurines or accent plants. Daiza are often carved from wood, but they can also be made from metal, stone or ceramic.

Daiza are also used to present and enhance the beauty of suiseki stones. Suiseki (水石) is the Japanese art of stone appreciation, which values aspects like stability, longevity and immortality. The daiza is a carved wooden base, custom-made to accommodate and enhance a stone. It helps stabilize it in a chosen orientation to reveal its potential. Elegant, but discreet, the daiza should not be the main element of the presentation.