In Japan, sound carries meaning far beyond what we hear. Few objects embody this idea more powerfully than the bonsho, large temple bells whose resonant tones have marked the passage of time, called communities to reflection, and echoed through centuries of spiritual life.
1 May 2026
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A bonsho (梵鐘) is a traditional Japanese bell typically found in Buddhist temples. Unlike Western bells, they do not swing or contain an internal clapper. Instead, they are struck from the outside with a suspended wooden beam, producing a deep, lingering tone that can travel huge distances. These bells are closely tied to Buddhism, particularly in Japan, where they are used in rituals, ceremonies and daily temple life.
The current example, available to bid on in our next Asian & Islamic Art auction, originates from the Edo period (1615-1868), and is inscribed and dated third year of Tenna, 1683. Measuring 72cm high, this large bell has a ryuzo (suspension loop) formed by two dragon heads and a flame, above panelled sides, each with sixteen bosses; and around the base, it is cast with two lotus-shaped tsuki-za (striking points).
A Japanese bronze bonsho temple bell, Edo period (1615-1868) (£1,000-2,000)
Each strike of the bonsho bell unfolds in three parts: the initial strike (Atari), the sustained resonance (Oshi), and the fading echo (Okuri). The layered sound is meant to encourage mindfulness, stillness, and contemplation – a stark contrast to today’s world of constant notifications, scrolling feeds, and endless streams of content that rarely give the mind space to settle. In this way, the Bonshō becomes a symbol of grounding, offering a moment to rest.
Perhaps the most well-known use of bonsho bells occurs during Omisoka, when temples across Japan ring their bells one hundred and eight times in a ritual called joya no kane. In Buddhist belief, this number represents the earthly desires or temptations that cause human suffering. Each ring symbolically cleanses one of these, allowing people to enter the new year with a purified spirit.
Bonsho bells are typically made of bronze and can be enormous, some weighing several tons. They are often cast in a single piece, a process that requires extraordinary skill and precision. The surfaces are often decorated with raised knobs, inscriptions or calligraphy, and religious imagery.
One of the most famous examples is the bell at Chion-in in Kyoto, one of the largest in Japan. Ringing it requires a team effort, highlighting just how monumental these instruments can be.
Viewing of this wonderful object is available at our London Gallery from Friday 8 - Wednesday 13 May.
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