Eizanji Temple: Bell

JAPAN, Nara, Gojo; Heian period

Cast in 917, the bell was originally located in Dochoji Temple in Kyoto but was later moved to the bell tower at Eizanji Temple. It was listed as a National Treasure in 1952, and is thought to be the finest Buddhist bell in Japan.
The bell curves gently from shoulder to the rim. Its crown is cast in the shape of twin dragons, appearing fierce with glaring eyes and open mouths. There are eight petal lotuses on their necks, and their bases are supported by a flaming jewel. Raised bands divide the bell into three sections. There are four panels on the upper section, with 28 studs arranged in four rows and seven columns. The middle section has an inscription that records the origins of the temple and praises the good deeds acquired by making donations for the bell. It is said that the inscription was composed by Sugawara no Michizane and was written by Ono no Michikaze. The lower section is undecorated.