Densho, c.1880-1900
In Japanese ceremonies, suspended cast iron bells are used for signalling during the prayer and for calling Buddhists to worship. In China, similar bells were employed in ensembles, where they represented the yin, or ‘receptive’ principle, and were sounded after the beat of a large drum (yang, or ‘creative’ element).
The densho incorporates many symbolic motifs found in the Far East. The ryuzo (suspension loop) is formed by two dragon heads and a flame; the upper third contains nyu (studs), symbols of fertility; and the barren field below (ikenomachi) provides a place for poetry or iconography. The chrysanthemum, a symbol of longevity and happiness, forms the shuza (striking surface). The densho may occasionally be heard in the Japanese kabuki theatre’s off-stage ensembles.
