https://artsandculture.google.com/asset/d%C5%8Dtaku-ritual-bell-with-flowing-water-design-unknown/gAEQ7_xqJv3cIQ
Details
- Title: Dōtaku (Ritual Bell) with Flowing Water Design
- Creator: Unknown
- Date: B.C. 1th Century
- Type: bronze
- External Link: http://syuweb.kyohaku.go.jp/ibmuseum_public/index.php?app=shiryo&mode=detail&list_id=445017&data_id=6495
This bronze ritual bell, dōtaku, is not only a sacred instrument used on festivals and other rituals but also an aesthetic-appealing luxury of high value and status. The surface of dōtaku has dense horizontal lines that form a unique texture called “flowing water design,” which is iconic in the Yayoi period.
There’s no doubt that the creator of this dōtaku spent a great amount of time and effort on carving the surface to create those horizontal lines and patterns. Despite the intricate details on the dōtaku, the dōtaku itself has an intriguing structural design as well. The ears of the bell extend only a bit and are embedded on a flat edge that circles the bell, which generates a sense of unity and harmony. There is one larger hole on the upper part, so this bell can be hanged on ropes and hooks, while there are two smaller holes on each face of the bell that might serve a similar purpose. Personally, I like this dōtaku very much.
