large antique mokugyo meditation drum with distressed patina and candle drip details

Love Japanese Style Like We Do

Step into a world of timeless beauty with this wonderful antique mokugyo or chanting drum. With the beautiful patina of age and subtle layers of candle wax drippings, this unique prayer and meditation tool makes a stunning  art object adding a touch of historical elegance to your spiritual space.

The mokugyo is a wooden percussion instrument used in Buddhism. Being rounded and hollow, its shape is similar to a jingle bell.  When struck with a mallet the mokugyo emits a hypnotic type sound. It is used in temples for reciting sutras or mantras, when reciting Nembutsu,  or for breathing and mindfulness sessions.

This beautiful mokugyo is adorned with traditional carved fish scales on both its top and bottom, and the handle features symbolized fish heads, joined by a sacred pearl representing unity. Sometimes a mokugyo is called the ‘Wakeful Drum’ as it keeps those meditating awake and alert. These stylized fish, carved into the mokugyo wood, symbolise that wakeful mind, with the fish, that never close their eyes, thought to be eternally awake.

Made from natural Judas wood, the drum showcases a rich, darkened patina from years of use, further enhanced by the markings left from rhythmic strikes. Drippings of candle wax adorn  its surface with each drip of wax creating an artful, one-of-a-kind design that only time and use could craft. The underside, once resting on a cushion for long periods, bears a lighter, more subdued tone.

The birch wood striker is flexible allowing a pleasing resonance when beating the wooden 
drum. The ball section of the striker has a crotched cotton cover. There are some marks and signs of wear but it is still in good working condition. The mokugyo remains in very good working condition with no cracks evident in the wood.

This stunning antique mokugyo is more than just an instrument - it's a unique piece of spiritual history that will beautifully enhance any religious decor, meditation space, or home. Let this remarkable item bring a sense of calm and reverence to your environment.

- measures 30 cm (11.9”) tall (with handle up) x 23 cm (9.1”) across x 23 cm (9.1”) deep.
- striker measures 40 cm (15.7”).
- weighs 2,076 gm.

(listing for mokugyo and striker. Stand not included)

SHIPPING INFORMATION
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ABOUT OUR VINTAGE, ANTIQUE AND OTHER ITEMS
We list pieces we feel are worthy of display. There may be scratches, dents, fading and signs of wear and tear. We try to explain the condition of each item exactly, but may miss something.

Information regarding the item and it’s age is obtained from dealers and our personal research. We do our best to give you the correct information but please be aware that we cannot guarantee this information.

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