Byodoin Temple: Bell

JAPAN, Kyoto, Uji; Heian period

This bell was cast between the 11th and 12th centuries and is now located at Byodoin Temple in Uji. The exact year of its casting is unknown because there is no inscription. Because of its elegant appearance and beautiful sound, it is reputed to be one of the Three Great Bells. It was listed as a National Treasure in 1952.
The crown takes the shape of twin dragons who attempt to hold the top of the bell in their mouths and have upright crests with a flaming jewel on their bodies. The bell curves gently from the shoulder to the wide mouth. The waist is filled with images in bas-relief, such as dragons, phoenixes, apsaras, lions, and a scroll leaf pattern. The middle section of the bell is divided into four panels with images of apsaras, two of whom hold lotuses and alternate with the other two holding trays of flowers. On the lower section, there are panels with a lion in each one.