Kondō Hōsōga-mon Kei (Gilded Bronze Chime)
Basic Information
- Catalog ID: 201
- Item ID: 389
- Category: Crafts
- Country: Japan
- Period: Heian Period
- Date designated: March 31, 1953
- Prefecture: Fukui
- Location: Takiya 1-157, Mikuni Town, Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture
- Owner: Takidanjiji Temple
Source: Excerpted from the National Designated Cultural Properties Database (https://kunishitei.bunka.go.jp/bsys/index)
Overview
The Kondō Hōsōga-mon Kei is a Buddhist artifact dating back to the Heian Period, associated with Takidanjiji Temple in Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture. A kei (chime or gong) is a type of percussion instrument used during Buddhist rituals to signal transitions or mark time. These instruments are typically made of metal or stone and suspended by a cord through an opening. This piece is crafted from gilded bronze—copper coated with gold plating. Due to its exceptional design and intricate craftsmanship, it was designated as a National Treasure, recognized as a masterpiece of Heian Period metalwork.
Historical Background
The Heian Period (794–1185) was a time when unique Japanese Buddhist culture flourished. The influence of the aristocratic court led to an unprecedented level of decorative splendor in religious implements (butsugu). Although Takidanjiji Temple, where this chime is preserved, was founded in 1375 (Eiwak 1), the kei itself is estimated to be from the late Heian Period. It represents the pinnacle of casting and metal engraving techniques of that era. This artifact is a precious relic that conveys the forms of esoteric Buddhist ritual implements and decorative objects (sōgon-gu) used at the time, highly valued for demonstrating the technical achievement of Heian bronze craftsmanship.
Features and Charm
The greatest appeal of the Kondō Hōsōga-mon Kei lies in its graceful form and the delicate decorations covering its surface.
- Elegance of Peacocks and Sacred Flowers: The surface features a pair of seated peacocks (taisza kujō) facing each other at the center. Surrounding them is an abundance of hōsōga (auspicious sacred flowers), which are depicted with delicate line engraving (senkoku). This motif—the harmony between the peacocks and the scrolling vines of hōsōga—symbolizes the elegant aesthetic favored by Heian nobility.
- Refined Shape: While following the traditional “mountain-shaped chime” (yama-gata kei) form, with a central peak tapering down at both ends, the overall proportions are exceptionally balanced. Despite being metal, it possesses a soft, curved beauty.
- Superior Casting and Metalwork: The gold plating applied to the copper retains an elegant luster even after centuries. This speaks volumes about the masterful skill of the period’s metalworkers. The patterns, drawn with extremely fine lines, create subtle shadows that change depending on how the light hits them.
- Suspension Loop: A hole (himoza) is set into the upper center for hanging. This feature perfectly merges its practical function as a ritual instrument with its inherent decorative artistic value.