Bell with a Five-Pronged Vajra and Characters Symbolizing Deities, Heian period, 12th century (Important Cultural Property)
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 13
July 2, 2019 (Tue) - September 16, 2019 (Mon)
In the 9th century, Kukai and other Japanese monks travelled to Tang dynasty China, bringing back the teachings of Esoteric Buddhism and its ritual implements. During the Heian period (794–1192), esoteric doctrine and its application to practical training were established, and the combination of ritual implements required for a set was defined in Japan. Often made of durable metals, these varied and uniquely-shaped implements were not only used in rituals but also served an ornamental function, being methodically positioned inside Buddhist halls and on altars. Visitors are invited to view these diverse implements and their richly-expressive forms achieved mainly through casting techniques.
Current exhibit includes:
Container for Buddhist Relics in the Shape of a Flaming Jewel, Kamakura period, 13th-14th century (Important Cultural Property)
Bell with a Five-Pronged Vajra and Objects Symbolizing Deities, Heian period, 12th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Gokokuji, Tokyo)
Dharma Wheel, Kamakura period, 14th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Jiko-ji, Saitama)
Double Vajra, Kamakura period, 14th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Jiko-ji, Saitama)
Bell with a Five-Pronged Vajra and Characters Symbolizing Deities, Heian period, 12th century (Important Cultural Property)
The Mandalas of the Two Realms, Kamakura period, 1194 (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Tokumanji, Ibaraki)