Vintage Japanese Small Bonsho Style Temple Bell - 1970s Showa Era (25D-297-1)

Vintage Japanese Temple Bell, Showa Era (SKU 25D-297-1)

Showa-era inspired cast-metal bonshō-style bell with rich dark patina

This compact vintage Japanese temple bell is modeled after the great bonshō that hang in Buddhist temple belfries across Japan. Cast in heavy dark metal with a softly worn patina, it features the characteristic segmented body, raised studded bosses, and architectural paneling that echo full-size bronze temple bells in miniature form.

A finely detailed floral medallion encircles the base, while the domed top rises to an ornate suspension finial, suggesting it was intended as a decorative altar bell or butsudan accent rather than a large sounding bell. Its understated presence and traditional Showa-era styling make it an ideal piece for a small shrine, meditation corner, or as a sculptural accent in a wabi-sabi interior.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Showa period (mid-20th century), vintage
• Material: Cast metal (likely bronze or brass alloy) with dark patina
• Use: Decorative temple bell for ho me altar, meditation space, or display
• Features: Bonshō-style form; raised studded bosses; panelled sides; floral crest motif at base; ornate top finial; warm vintage surface wear
• Dimensions: 4 1/4" Diameter x 7 3/4"H
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition with light age-appropriate wear and patina

A characterful Showa-era temple bell that brings an authentic touch of Japanese Buddhist architecture into an intimate interior setting.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage and antique items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.