Ancestral Tablet – IN MEMORY Lizheng Chinese Spirit Tablet

Ancestral tablet design can feel either too decorative or too distant.

So we focused on structure first.

I wanted something that feels grounded, clear, and meaningful without being overwhelming.

This is how the Lizheng piece was developed.

Ancestral Tablet Based on Confucian Ritual Design

This ancestral tablet is inspired by traditional Chinese spirit tablets recorded in Zhu Xi’s Family Rituals (朱子家礼).

In that system, the tablet is not just an object.

It is the center of family memory.

• Used in ancestral halls
• Represents lineage and continuity
• Connects past and present

Because of this, the structure follows a clear order.

Head, body, and base.

Together, they reflect the idea of heaven, earth, and human unity.

Why “Lizheng (礼正)”

The name means “ritual in its proper form.”

So, every proportion was carefully adjusted.

Nothing is random.

Everything follows a sense of order.

Material – Ginkgo Wood, Brick, and Bronze

This chinese spirit tablet combines three materials.

• Ginkgo wood – also called “tiger-bone wood,” known for stability
• Traditional kiln brick – dense, structured, historically used in imperial buildings
• Bronze plum detail – a symbol of endurance and clarity

Each material plays a role.

Wood carries warmth.

Brick provides foundation.

Metal adds a precise focal point.

Why We Chose These Materials

• Ginkgo wood ages well and holds its form
• Brick represents grounded structure
• Bronze adds contrast and symbolic meaning

As a result, the piece feels stable and intentional.

Design Details That Matter

Three-Part Structure

The tablet is built in a clear vertical order.

Base → Body → Top.

This creates visual stability.

Plum Blossom Detail

The bronze plum sits at the top.

In traditional symbolism, it represents resilience.

Even in cold conditions, it blooms.

Balanced Proportion

The base is grounded.

The body is upright.

The top is slightly weighted.

This creates a steady silhouette.

Handcrafted by Architectural Designers

We approach this as architectural work.

Not just product design.

• We study traditional structures
• We simplify the form
• We refine proportions through multiple iterations

Each piece is handcrafted.

So, slight variations will exist.

Learn more about our design approach

How It Fits in a Space

This ancestral tablet works in a dedicated setting.

• Paired with a small altar
• Used with incense or offerings
• Placed in a quiet, stable location

Because of its structure, it creates a clear focal point.

At the same time, it does not overwhelm the space.

Explore more pieces here:

A Short Story

In early prototypes, we tested softer shapes.

They looked good, but something felt off.

So we returned to traditional proportions.

Once the structure aligned, everything settled.

The piece finally felt grounded.

Product Information

• Name: IN MEMORY · Lizheng
• Material: Ginkgo Wood, Brick, Bronze
• Size: 66 × 41 × 200 mm

Note: Slight variations may occur due to handcrafting. Color differences may appear depending on lighting and display.

FAQs About Ancestral Tablets

1. What is an ancestral tablet?

It is a traditional object used to represent and remember ancestors in a structured setting.

2. What makes this a Chinese spirit tablet?

It follows Confucian ritual proportions and traditional symbolic elements.

3. Why use ginkgo wood?

It is stable, durable, and historically associated with longevity.

4. Is this suitable for home use?

Yes. It is designed to work in both traditional and modern interiors.

5. Is each piece identical?

No. Each one is handcrafted, so small differences will exist.

This ancestral tablet is built with structure and intention — a chinese spirit tablet where memory rests in peace.