An optically anisotropic element comprises a discotic compound. The
discotic compound has an oriented discotic plane. The discotic compound
has a molecular structure including a discotic core and 3 to 20
combinations of ester bonds (--O--CO--) and 1- or 2-alkenyl groups. The
alkenyl group can have a polymerizable group as a substituent group
positioned at the terminal. A polymerizable discotic compound having an
oriented discotic plane can be polymerized to form an optically
anisotropic element. Alignment of the oriented discotic plane is fixed by
polymerization. A new triphenylene compound is also disclosed.