Here’s a rare pair of treasures from Japan and an unusual find- excellent candidates to accent your indoor or outdoor garden space.

This is a pair of superb antique bronze castings of large-scale temple bells complete with their original cloud form chimes and clappers. These bells were sourced from an old Southern Japan collection and were one of a small group of these rare bells de-accessioned by a Southern Japanese temple community.

They date to the end of the Meiji period and display an impressive fine old patina with floral cut out heart motif.

They come complete with their original cloud motif clappers- very unusual for bells with this combination, age, and fine quality. Used for temple services, these clappers are sometimes called Unban gong and are also hand made of bronze.

These bells were often commissioned by wealthy families and donated as sacred gifts to temples and shrines on behalf of their family or in honor of a special family member. They may have also been used for utilitarian purposes such as summoning family members in private homes.

The bells possess a beautiful original old patina which supports and highlights their generations old temple life.

Dimensions: 15.5 inches tall from top of bell to the bottom of the cloud clapper and 9 inches diameter

Tone: When gently struck they give a nice ring. We will include a complimentary rubber striker to enhance your immediate enjoyment.

History of Japan’s temple bells:
Buddhist bells known as tsurigane (hanging bells) or great bells are large bells found in Buddhist temples throughout Japan, used to summon the monks to prayer. Smaller bells are also used for other utilitarian purposes such as summoning for a meal.

Lifetime guarantee of authenticity: All of our Asian works of art come with our Lifetime Authenticity Guarantee.