Morikami showcases the spirit of Japan through Zodiac Animals and Roof Tiles
- Jennifer Roberts
- Nov 20, 2025
- 1 min read
The Zodiac Tiger is on display at the Zodiac Animals exhibition. [Photo by Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens]
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens' limited-time exhibit — Zodiac Animals and Japanese Roof Tiles — invite visitors to step into centuries of tradition and artistry, now on view through Nov. 30.
In the Kohnken Gallery, Zodiac Animals brings whimsy and reflection together in a colorful display. The exhibit celebrates the 12 animals of the Asian zodiac, exploring their role in folklore and tradition through origami, toys, prints, votives, carvings, papier-mâché, and statuary. The Asian zodiac is rooted in the Chinese lunar calendar, with each year linked to an animal and one of five elements — water, fire, earth, metal, or wood. This cycle repeats every 60 years, with the return to one’s birth-year animal considered especially significant.
Just across the way in the Yamato-kan, Japanese Roof Tiles transports guests back to the origins of Japanese architecture. Known as kawara, these clay roof tiles first appeared in the 7th century on Buddhist temples and eventually became fixtures on homes and public buildings across Japan. With their smoky gray finish and intricate motifs, each design carried meaning, from good fortune to protection against evil spirits. With more than 1,000 symbolic tile designs still in use today, the display connects ancient tradition to modern life.
The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is located at 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach. For details, call (561) 495-0233 or visit morikami.org.
