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Myoshinji Temple: Offering Instruments
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Myoshinji Temple: Offering Instruments
JAPAN, Kyoto; Edo period (1615–1868), dated 1664; Copper alloy
This set of three offering instruments includes a vase, incense burner, and candle holder. Such instruments originated in China and started to be used in Japan during the Kamakura period (1185-1333).
Standing on three legs, the vase is 33.3 cm high and has a hexagonal-shaped lower section. The middle section has a depiction of a rearing dragon, and the handles on either side are decorated with the faces of mythical creatures. The neck is quite high and culminates in a wide mouth.
The three-legged incense burner is 31.5 cm high. The lid features a mythical creature holding its head up high, and the squat body has a dragon and cloud patterns. There is a handle on either side. The 63.8 cm high candle holder has a phoenix which stands on a rock base holding a long stem in its mouth. At the top, there is a spike for holding a candle. |
