Japanese Antique Mokugyo, Buddhist Wooden Fish Bell

Description

Antique Japanese mokugyo, fish bell, carved of keyaki (zelkova, elm) wood with traces of red and white lacquer. This wooden temple bell was used by Buddhist priest during religious ceremonies and chants. Laid on it’s side on a pillow, the bell was struck to a rhythm to match the cadence of the chant. The carving on the bell is of two fish embracing a pearl, a symbol of unity. The fish themselves symbolize wakefulness, in this case to remind the chanters to focus on the sutra.

Age: Late Edo period 19th Century

Dimensions: 9 1/2″ high x 11 3/4″ wide x 7″ deep.