Sacred Objects from Ancient Temples
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Rosary Beads, Excavated at Hokkeji Temple, Nara-shi, Nara, Nara period, 8th century
Japanese Archaeology and Special Exhibition (Heiseikan) Japanese Archaeology Gallery
September 29, 2020 (Tue) - March 21, 2021 (Sun)Ancient temples were often constructed with a collection of sacred objects buried at their base. These sacred objects included mirrors, beads, coins, and metal vessels. They were meant to pacify unfriendly spirits and ensure the temple could be constructed safely.
| Designation | Name | Creation/ Excavation/ Provenance |
Period | Acquisition/ Ownership/ Accession Number |
CMT | ||
| Highlight | Comma-Shaped Beads ("Magatama") | Found at Gangō-ji Temple, Nara | Nara period, 8th century | J-25114 | |||
| Highlight | Tonbodama Beads | Found at Gangō-ji Temple, Nara | Nara period, 8th century | J-25116 | |||
| Highlight | Polished Spherical Stone | Found at Gangō-ji Temple, Nara | Nara period, 8th century | E-14294 | |||
| Highlight | Rosary Beads | Found at Gangō-ji Temple, Nara | Nara period, 8th century | E-14295 |