Todaiji Temple Shosoin: Banner

JAPAN, Nara; Nara period

Since most banners are made of cloth or silk, this copper banner is relatively rare. It is one of four such banners in the Shosoin at Todaiji Temple. It was offered by Empress Dowager Komyo in 756 in memory of her late husband, Emperor Shomu (reigned 724–749).
This elegant openwork banner consists of four sections. The top of the banner is carved with a triangular scroll leaf pattern with golden lotus petals on either side. There is a small suspension loop on the top, and each section features different patterns, such as scroll leaf, hexagonal tortoise-shell, and bell. On either side of the joints between each section there are hanging decorations, such as flowers and bells. There are five miniature bells at the bottom of the banner.