10th-16th c. Javanese Bronze Buddhist Vajra Bell - High Priest, Buddha - Museum

Description

10-16th Century Javanese Buddhist Temple Bell - High Priest Bell
A beautiful, one-of-a-kind Buddhist bell. This was used by a high priest over a millennia ago. It was brought to the US by General Stillwell after WWII. I acquired it from his estate in Carmel. There are Buddhist head forms on the handle.  This bell has the Vajra design on the top. The patina is absolutely incredible. This is a one-of-a-kind artifact, and similar examples sit in museums. It is worth many times what I'm asking.
Approx 15" in height.
Comes with a custom carved wood stand (seen in first photo). Height of stand is not included in bell height.
Material: Bronze, bell metal.  It's likely a 5 metal alloy (75% copper, 15-20% tin, zinc, iron, and lead).  It may also have trace amounts of silver or gold to represent Absolute and Relative Truth.
This bell is exquisitely cast in two combined parts. Additional info:
- The five prongs on the vajra handle represent the five "male" perfections of generosity, morality, patience, perseverance, and concentration.  The open mouth of the bell represents the sixth female perfection of wisdom.
- lotus circle with ornate petals and syllables on the upper shoulder
- opening tapers slightly inwards to create the thin circular ring of metal that is responsible for creating the sustained resonance of the bell ("the sound of emptiness").
It's a museum piece. The next owner will not be disappointed.