Antique Japanese Buddhist Ceremonial Bell – Dainichi Nyorai Inscription – Earthenware – c. Late 19th–Early 20th Century
Description:
An antique Japanese Buddhist ceremonial bell formed in earthenware clay and inscribed with the kanji 大日如来 (Dainichi Nyorai) — the Cosmic Buddha central to esoteric Shingon and Tendai Buddhism. The bell features a softly rounded rectangular form with raised relief detailing and remnants of gilded highlights, suspended by a traditional cord through dual pierced holes.
This type of bell would have been used in devotional or ritual contexts, either hung within a shrine, carried during pilgrimage, or employed in personal Buddhist practice. Unlike later bronze temple bells, the use of fired clay suggests regional or folk production, intended for spiritual function rather than architectural permanence.
A rare survival of vernacular Japanese religious material culture.
Features:
• Origin: Japan
• Era: Late 19th – early 20th century (Meiji to early Showa period)
• Inscription: 大日如来 (Dainichi Nyorai – Cosmic Buddha)
• Type: Buddhist ceremonial / devotional bell
• Form: Hand-formed rectangular bell with internal clapper
• Suspension: Original or early cord threading
• Decoration: Raised relief with traces of gilt detailing
• Height: Approx. 5–6 cm (see ruler in photos)
Construction / Materials:
• Fired earthenware / clay body
• Hand-moulded relief decoration
• Pierced suspension holes
• Internal clay clapper
• Aged surface patina consistent with ritual use
Condition:
Good antique condition for age and material. Surface wear, patina, and minor edge irregularities consistent with long-term handling and devotional use. No major structural cracks observed. Interior clapper present.
Type:
Antique Japanese Buddhist ceremonial bell / devotional ritual object.
 
A scarce and evocative piece of Japanese religious history — well suited to collectors of Buddhist artifacts, antique Asian ritual objects, or museum-style ethnographic collections.