Samaya Gokorei (Five-Pronged Vajra Bell)

11th–14th century

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Object Label

Objects intended for ritual use by priests of Esoteric Buddhism include the bell "to awaken the seeds of enlightenment" and the weapon "to destroy human lusts and desires." Characteristically, they are executed with stylized ornamentation of scrolling lotus petals, floral scroll patterns, and auspicious Sanskrit symbols. The proper ghanta and vajra forms and decoration, along with their role in the rituals, were a matter of secret knowledge passed down from generation to generation of teacher to follower.

Caption

Samaya Gokorei (Five-Pronged Vajra Bell), 11th–14th century. Gilt, cast bronze, 6 x 2 3/4 in. (15.2 x 7 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of Bernice and Robert Dickes, 69.124.2. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)

Gallery

Not on view

Collection

Asian Art

Title

Samaya Gokorei (Five-Pronged Vajra Bell)

Date

11th–14th century

Period

Late Heian Period to Kamakura Period

Geography

Place made: Japan

Medium

Gilt, cast bronze

Classification

Ceremonial

Dimensions

6 x 2 3/4 in. (15.2 x 7 cm)

Credit Line

Gift of Bernice and Robert Dickes

Accession Number

69.124.2

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