924 The Trees of Great Britain and Ireland 



finely grained wood of this tree shown at the Osaka Exhibidon in 1903 was priced 

 at 800 yen (over ;^8o) ; and I saw beautifully figured pieces myself of a peculiar 

 reddish tint which were held for fancy prices, such pieces being much valued for 

 the construction of the dais which is a marked feature in Japanese rooms, and 

 on which is the seat of honour. Most of the pillars, beams, gateways, gates, and 

 carved roofs, which are so striking a feature in Japanese temples, old and new, 

 are made of Keaki wood, which seems indestructible by time or damp when covered 

 in, and I was told that some of these which looked sound, though much weather 

 worn, were 1000 years old. It seemed to me, however, that 1000 years is simply a 

 convenient expression in Japan for anything very old, though no doubt historical 

 evidence could be found if wanted as to the durability of this fine wood. The fancy 

 grained varieties are known as Jorin, Uzura (partridge), Tama (gem), or Botan 

 (peony), and these are used for cabinetmaking and fancy work. The colour, 

 according to Rein, is deepened by long submersion in water. Rein gives the specific 

 gravity of the wood at 0.682. I bought some of the wood in Japan, and have 

 used it in making a large wardrobe ; it takes polish well, makes good joints, and 

 seems equal to mahogany for furniture making, but so far as I can learn has not as 

 yet been imported, and is unknown in the trade. (H. J. E.) 



