The Sound of Ancient Bells
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Mirror with Seven Bells
Found at the Mikuradō Site, Nara, Kofun period, 5th–6th centuryJapanese Archaeology and Special Exhibition (Heiseikan) Japanese Archaeology Gallery
April 8, 2026 (Wed) - December 6, 2026 (Sun)In the 5th and 6th centuries, during the mid- to the late Kofun period, bells became widely used. A range of bronze objects, such as bracelets, mirrors, and horse tack, were also fitted with bells. With their metallic sheen and resonant sound, these bells probably had the roles of enhancing the solemnity of rituals and the dignity of rulers.
| Designation | Name | Creation/ Excavation/ Provenance |
Period | Acquisition/ Ownership/ Accession Number |
CMT | ||
| Highlight | Bracelet with Bells | Reportedly found in Fukaya City, Saitama | Kofun period, 5th–6th century | J-7387 | |||
| Highlight | Mirror with Seven Bells | Found at the Mikuradō Site, Nara | Kofun period, 5th–6th century | J-20640 | |||
| Highlight | Ring with Three Bells | Found at the Tsugashira Nishi Tumulus, Kagawa | Kofun period, 5th century | J-9067 |