The Sounds of Buddhism: Bells, Gongs and Other Buddhist Instruments
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Kei Gong, Lotus arabesque design, Heian period, 12th century (National Treasure, Lent by Zenrinji, Kyoto)
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 14
August 10, 2010 (Tue) - October 3, 2010 (Sun)>> detailed information
In Buddhism, some ritual implements are used specifically to produce sound. These are known in Japanese as "bon'ongu" - literally, "Buddhist instruments." We hope viewers will take the opportunity to appreciate the unusual shapes and designs, and the functional beauty of Buddhist ritual instruments.
Exhibit includes:
Kei Gong, Butterfly shape, Excavated from Miyabuchi, Matsumoto-shi, Nagano, Heian period, dated 1001 (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Takahashi Tamotsu, on exhibit from August 11, 2010)
Kei Gong, Lotus pond design, Excavated at Kinpusen, Yoshino-cho, Nara, Heian period, 12th century (Important Cultural Property)
Kei Gong, Lotus arabesque design, Heian period, 12th century (National Treasure, Lent by Zenrinji, Kyoto)
Waniguchi Gong, Excavated from Miyabuchi, Matsumoto-shi, Nagano, Heian period, dated 1001 (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Takahashi Tamotsu, on exhibit from August 11, 2010)
Bell, With year inscription, Korea, Goryeo dynasty, dated 1107 (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Nishiarai-daishi Soujiji, Tokyo)