Gibōshi (擬宝珠) is a type of ornamental finial used on Japanese railings.[1] Gibōshi bridge ornaments resemble an onion; the ends are bulbous and typically come to a point. It is believed that the shape of gibōshi was from hōju (宝珠; "sacred gem" or "cintāmaṇi") which is used to decorate roofs.[2] They are often found on bridges in Japanese gardens, temples and shinto shrines.[2]

Gibōshi come in two styles; normal style and Kamakura style.[2]

A giboshi

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "Giboshi". Japanese Architecture and Art Net Users System (JAANUS). Retrieved 9 January 2013.
  2. ^ a b c "Giboshi/Product information|Japanese traditional architecture decoration. MORIKUNI Co., Ltd". www.morikunijapan.com (in Japanese). Retrieved 3 January 2018.