A BRONZE TEMPLE BELL, BONSHO, DATED 1754 Japan, dated 1754, Edo period (1615-1868) Of archaic form, sharply cast with lotus petals and studs in the form of flower buds, the side engraved with an inscription dating the present bell to the fourth year of the Horeki era (1751-1764), corresponding to 1754. Bonsho are large hanging bells, usually made from bronze, found in Buddhist temples throughout Japan, used to summon the monks to prayer and to demarcate periods of time. Rather than containing a clapper, bonshō are struck from the outside, using either a handheld mallet or a beam suspended on ropes. The earliest bells date to around 600 AD, although the general design is of much earlier Chinese origin and shares some of the features seen in ancient Chinese bells. Their penetrating and pervasive tone carries over considerable distances, which led to their use as signals, timekeepers and alarms. In addition, the sound of the bell is thought to have supernatural properties. It is believed, for example, that it can be heard in the underworld. HEIGHT 41.5 cm WEIGHT 12.6 kg Condition: Excellent condition with old wear, some nicks and dents as well as casting flaws. The two holes at the top were possibly drilled later. Very fine patina. Provenance: English private collection.