Japanes Bronze? What is this?

Sticks1

Jr. Member
Joined
Jan 12, 2010
Messages
61
Reaction score
1
Golden Thread
0
I got this at a second hand store today. It seems to be a bronze (flat bell shaped) that is approx 7 1/2" H X 4 1/4 W x 3/4" thick. There is a dragon face and body on the upper section and the middle (I think is a bat) over a moon. Then the bottom section appears to be leaves. Any thoughts on what this piece may be? A friend thought it may be from a Japanese temple.
 

Attachments

  • DSCN2909.webp
    DSCN2909.webp
    22.5 KB · Views: 86
  • DSCN2917.webp
    DSCN2917.webp
    30.1 KB · Views: 80
  • DSCN2926.webp
    DSCN2926.webp
    45.2 KB · Views: 81
  • DSCN2931.webp
    DSCN2931.webp
    30.2 KB · Views: 87
  • DSCN2919.webp
    DSCN2919.webp
    23.9 KB · Views: 86
The only markings I can find on this piece are these two markings on the reverse behind the handle. There are 3 small marks on each side. That is all I can find.DSCN2950.webpDSCN2949.webp
 

Upvote 0
The 'markings' are just decor to give it an antique look, but its modern (no more than 50 years) tourist decorative piece.
 

Upvote 0
Definately NOT from a Japanese temple. I've been to over a dozen different temples when I used to live in Japan and they never had anything like that.

Your piece looks to be a decorative wall hanger. Which is why it is flat and has an undecorated back side. I have seen shrine and temple bells in a variety of sizes, but they usually have the same characteristics in common. They are always round. Usually only sparsely decorated. And usually have some sort of writing on it. Like this one, for example:

DSCF0038.jpg
 

Upvote 0

Top Member Reactions

Users who are viewing this thread

Back
Top Bottom