Ritual Chime, second half 14th century
Unknown Japaneseexpand_more
Gilt bronzeexpand_more
The Putnam Dana McMillan Fundexpand_more 2000.79
Not on Viewexpand_more
Buddhist priests strike bronze chimes like this one with a small mallet to signal the start of ceremonies and to mark the titles of sutras (holy writings) as they are chanted. Suspended from small wooden frames, they are placed to the right of the officiating priest. The earliest chimes made in Japan were simple, geometric shapes but, by the 12th century, metalworkers were creating more elaborate, often beautifully detailed examples. This chime is in the shape of a blossoming lotus flower, a Buddhist symbol of purity.
Details
- Title
- Ritual Chime
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2000.79
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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