In esoteric Buddhism (mikkyō), the practioner places their many ritual tools in specific places during the performance of a rite. The vajra bell and the vajra pestles are arranged on this tray (kongōban), which is itself positioned on the altar. Its bold grandeur with a weighty decorative border outlining the surface of the thick tray are among the stylistic elements indicating its production in the latter part of the Kamakura period (1185–1333). An inscription on the back reveals that this was used in the Shingondō at Saidaiji Temple in Nara.
MIMOTO ShusakuEnglish by Mary Lewine
Buddhist Art Paradise: Jewels of the Nara National Museum. Nara National Museum, 2021.7, p.339, no.132.
Kongōban (Stand for esoteric ritual bell and pestles)
Bronze, gilted
Long D 30.8, Short D 22.0, H 4.5
Kamakura period 14th century
Shōwa 3 1314
- D000834
- D000834
- D000836
- A023697
- A023698
- A023699
- A023700
- A023701
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| Accession Number | 695-0 |
|---|---|
| Category | Decorative Arts |
| Provenance | Formerly kept in Saidai-ji temple, Nara |
| Bibliography | Buddhist Art Paradise: Jewels of the Nara National Museum. Nara National Museum, 2021.7, 354p. Masterpieces of Nara National Museum. Nara National Museum, 1993, 143p. (Japanese) Illustrated Catalogue of the Collection of Nara National Museum: Buddhist Implements. Nara National Museum, 1992, 121p. (Japanese) |