Temple Journal

The old literature on objects often separates two layers: the object — form, material, craft, which can be measured and examined — and the realm, the relationship a piece generates with light, orientation and the people around it, which cannot be measured but can be felt.

Every piece at Chan Feng Shui Yun is archived with its form, material and dimensions. Its realm, however, must be weighed by whoever places it, according to the layout of the home and its use. That is why we keep inquiry alongside the archive — the same object has different proprieties in a hall and in a study.

"One Object, One Realm" is no boast; it is a way of working. Each object must be accounted for clearly before anything else can follow.

The structure of the catalogue is the fastest way to understand the house. Enter and you see six gates first; within a gate, four realms — six times four makes 24.

Incense & Offerings serve the altar; Home Guardianship serves thresholds and halls; Imperial Court Objects serve display and appreciation; Scripture & Study serve the studio and desk; Curated Display serves storage and presentation; Personal Adornments are worn close.

The gates concern not only use but propriety and placement. Each realm in the catalogue is therefore marked with its gate, as the starting point for selection and inquiry.

Material comes first. Timber must be free of cracks and knots, with suitable moisture content, before it can be formed; metal objects call for a material and alloy suited to their purpose.

Cutting and forming follow the intended shape. Courtly objects turn on proportion and edge lines; allowance for shrinkage and finishing must be calculated at the saw, so the finished piece stands true and even.

Once formed, the object is consecrated by ritual so that it serves both use and veneration; a certificate accompanies it, recording its number and consecration.

Broadly: guardianship pieces suit thresholds, entryways or halls; incense and offering pieces suit the altar and quiet places; scripture and study pieces suit the studio desk; personal adornments should be worn close and kept clean.

With the place chosen, three things matter: avoid damp and direct sunlight; avoid crowding against clutter or appliances; and keep the piece clean and steady rather than moving it often.

If the layout of your home is unusual, or several objects must be placed at once, please inquire first, describing the position and purpose, and the temple will offer guidance.