Bell shrine - Bronze - 1750-1800
Starting bid
€ 1
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Selected by Giovanni Bottero
Holds a master’s in Japanese art history with over 10 years’ expertise in Asian art.
Estimate € 2,100 - € 2,400
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Description from the seller
An antique and large bonshō (Buddhist temple bell) of high quality, weighing 30.6 kg, cast in solid bronze in the traditional shape of the Edo period and dated 1754 (the fourth year of the Hōreki era).
The vertical inscription in relief, placed at the center of the bell between the lotus-bud reliefs, bears the most important devotional formula of the Pure Land Buddhist schools (浄土宗 / 浄土真宗):
南無阿彌陀佛 (Namu Amida Butsu) — “I pay homage to Amida Buddha” or “I entrust myself to Amida Buddha.”
Among the inscriptions within the four rectangular panels, we read:
宝暦四年 甲戌 春日 -> 4th year of the Hōreki era, Year of the Metal Dog, Spring = 1754
北勢鈴鹿都和田庄 -> Village of Wada, Suzuka District, Province of Hokusei (today Mie Prefecture)
御鋳師 菴藝住 安保常次 -> “Master founder Abo Tsuneji, residing in the Province of Aki (Angei-jū).”
The arched protrusions, known as 乳 (chi), around the upper part of the bell are precisely arranged in four rows of four, creating a geometric pattern that reflects order and harmony. Every detail and curve has been shaped with precision, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of the master founder.
At the top, the handle 竜頭 (ryūzu) takes the form of two finely carved, mirrored dragon heads facing each other with remarkable detail that captures both the eye and the imagination. These dragons are symbols of strength and wisdom.
---The bell is in good condition, with its original patina preserved. Please refer to the pictures for further details.
---The item will be carefully packed and shipped via DHL express or FedEx.
The original certificate of authenticity issued by our gallery will be provided to the buyer.
384
Seller's Story
Mastromauro Arte Giapponese, based in Milan, specializes in Japanese art, with particular attention to the Edo (1603–1868) and Meiji (1868–1912) periods, while also maintaining an open perspective on more contemporary works.
Here on Catawiki, they offer a part of their collection in every weekly auction.
Translated by Google TranslateAn antique and large bonshō (Buddhist temple bell) of high quality, weighing 30.6 kg, cast in solid bronze in the traditional shape of the Edo period and dated 1754 (the fourth year of the Hōreki era).
The vertical inscription in relief, placed at the center of the bell between the lotus-bud reliefs, bears the most important devotional formula of the Pure Land Buddhist schools (浄土宗 / 浄土真宗):
南無阿彌陀佛 (Namu Amida Butsu) — “I pay homage to Amida Buddha” or “I entrust myself to Amida Buddha.”
Among the inscriptions within the four rectangular panels, we read:
宝暦四年 甲戌 春日 -> 4th year of the Hōreki era, Year of the Metal Dog, Spring = 1754
北勢鈴鹿都和田庄 -> Village of Wada, Suzuka District, Province of Hokusei (today Mie Prefecture)
御鋳師 菴藝住 安保常次 -> “Master founder Abo Tsuneji, residing in the Province of Aki (Angei-jū).”
The arched protrusions, known as 乳 (chi), around the upper part of the bell are precisely arranged in four rows of four, creating a geometric pattern that reflects order and harmony. Every detail and curve has been shaped with precision, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of the master founder.
At the top, the handle 竜頭 (ryūzu) takes the form of two finely carved, mirrored dragon heads facing each other with remarkable detail that captures both the eye and the imagination. These dragons are symbols of strength and wisdom.
---The bell is in good condition, with its original patina preserved. Please refer to the pictures for further details.
---The item will be carefully packed and shipped via DHL express or FedEx.
The original certificate of authenticity issued by our gallery will be provided to the buyer.
384
Seller's Story
Mastromauro Arte Giapponese, based in Milan, specializes in Japanese art, with particular attention to the Edo (1603–1868) and Meiji (1868–1912) periods, while also maintaining an open perspective on more contemporary works.
Here on Catawiki, they offer a part of their collection in every weekly auction.
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Era
1400-1900
Material
Bronze
Country of origin
Japan
Height
65 cm
Dynastic style/period
1754 (the fourth year of the Hōreki era)
Width
38 cm
Depth
38 cm
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
Estimated period
1750-1800
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