The "fire wheel" symbol is on Buddhist and Shinto temples all over Japan. Tomoe means turning or circular, referring to the motion of the earth. It relates to the yin yang symbol, and has a similar meaning, representing the play of forces in the cosmos. The most common tomoe emblem has three flames (triple, or 'mitsu' tomoe) A Mitsu Tomoe reflects the threefold division of Shinto cosmology, and is said to represent the earth, the heavens, and humankind. This relief tile is hand pressed in stoneware and glazed in multiple colors, emphasizing its sculptural dimension. Tile measures roughly 3 by 3 inches and about 5/8 of an inch thick at the edges. It is notched on the back so it can hang on a nail.
