framed plaque; framed motto; tablet
Refers to a framed picture or calligraphic motto, usually horizontal, hung over gates, doorways, or lintels. Common in traditional Japanese architecture and temples.
A large framed plaque is hung over the temple gate.
The framed motto read 'Ichigo Ichie' (one encounter, one opportunity).
From Chinese 扁額 (biǎn'é), meaning a horizontal inscribed board. The kanji 扁 means 'flat' or 'horizontal', and 額 means 'framed picture' or 'tablet'.