Description
This is a portable container once used to preserve a miniature Buddhist sacred text. Created by hammering the reverse, high-relief designs on both the front and back of the case depict a peaceful pond where young boys are holding giant lotus flowers in their hands, and a pair of mandarin ducks are swimming. Probably the playful boys represent newly reborn souls in the Pure Land.
Provenance
Mr. Mitsura Tajima, Tokyo, Japan, given to the Cleveland Museum of Art (?–1998); The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH (1998–)
Accession Number
1998.121
Medium
gilt bronze with incised and high relief decoration
Dimensions
Overall: 10.2 x 6.5 x 1.5 cm (4 x 2 9/16 x 9/16 in.)
Classification
Metalwork
Credit Line
Gift of Mitsuru Tajima