A heavy traditional bronze temple bell 梵鐘 (bonshô), boasting a dark brown patina and a resonant sound. The top handle, 竜頭 (ryûzu), is beautifully sculpted into the form of twin dragon heads. The bell’s upper section features prominently displayed bosses 乳 (chi) in three rows of three, each set within embossed cartouches, and includes at the lower edge a flower-shaped striking panel 撞座 (tsuki’za). Three of the large cartouches, and the smallen in between them with inscriptions by the commissioner(s), of which one dated ‘Meiji 31’ 明治三十一年, Anno 1898. Dimensions: Height 51 cm, Diameter 28 cm. Weight 16.4 kg. In a good original condition with minimal traces of wear conform age and good aged patina of being used outside. Wear of a dragon head. Please look at the photos for a condition reference. Bonshô are integral to Japanese Buddhist temples, used for calling monks to prayer and marking time. Known also as tsurigane 釣り鐘 or ōgane 大鐘, these bells are a storied element of Buddhist practice in Japan. When shipped we will add a certificate of authenticity.