19th C. Japanese Edo Period Bronze Umpan Gong

East Asia, Japan, Edo period, ca. early to mid-19th century CE. A beautiful cast bronze gong known as an umpan that was used in a Zen temple or monastery. A suspension hole is pierced through the top center with raised lotus petals encircling the opening. A relief medallion on both sides consists an eight spoked wheel of dharma. Umpans were usually hung near the kitchen or dining hall for because they were rung to signal meals. Umpan translates to "cloud plate" and this example has the characteristically in curled tips and a tapering neck which represent a stylized cloud. The daily lives of Zen monks are directed by the sounds made by instruments such as this umpan and other types of gongs. Different tones and sounds made by these instruments gave meaning to and signaled the passing of the day; especially when there were vows of silence - talking was not permitted but these gongs could break the silence. Size: 8.5" L x .5" W x 8.5" H (21.6 cm x 1.3 cm x 21.6 cm)

Provenance: private southern California, USA collection, acquired before 2000.

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#162237
Condition Report: Dark patina, surface abrasions and imperfections as expected with age and use. Softening of wheel and lotus motifs. Emits a high-pitched tone.