BIG! Japanese antique Buddhist temple bell Bronze large gong, big hanging bell, buddhist alter 梵鐘BON SHOU made in 1829 H18.1in/H46cm

This is a bell used in temples, called 梵鐘Bon Shou. 梵Brahma means universe, nature, or Buddha.
This piece is very large in size and has a cool look due to its age. The sound is even more wonderful because it is thicker. The bells were used in Japanese temples because they were used as time signals. Another reason is to bring the sound of the bell, or the voice of Buddha, to more people.
The voice of Buddha is a wish that all people will be happy. This bell was used to deliver such wishes.

When viewed from above, it is evident that this bell is severely warped. Approximately 100 years ago in Japan, a movement to suppress Buddhism took place as the country modernized, leading to the destruction and burning of many temples. During this turmoil, this bell was crushed under a collapsing structure during a fire. The extreme heat and pressure dramatically altered its shape.

The top of the bell features the "Ryuzu" , or "dragon head," which is the part used for hanging the bell. The Ryuzu is composed of two dragon heads, whose lips rest against the upper surface of the bell body.
The tack-like protrusions on the upper body are called "Chi". While the number of Chi typically varies from 36 to 144, this particular bell has 36 Chi, arranged in four blocks of 9.
The striking spot, known as the "Enza" or "circular seat," is decorated with a lotus flower design.

The central part of the bell, both on the front and back, features a relief engraving of the chant  "南無阿弥陀仏 Namu Amida Butsu". This phrase is considered the most important saying in Buddhism, meaning: "I sincerely take refuge in and entrust myself completely to Amida Buddha, who possesses immeasurable light (wisdom) and immeasurable life (compassion)." Also inscribed is the phrase "光明遍照十方世界 念仏衆生摂取不捨 "Komyo Hensho Jippo Sekai, Nenbutsu Shujo Sesshu Fusha". This means: "Amida Buddha's boundless light shines throughout the ten directions of the world, embracing and never forsaking any sentient being who chants the Nenbutsu."　The bell is also inscribed with the fact that it was donated to a temple in what is now Hyōgo Prefecture in 1826 by the local young people of the time.

Over more than 200 years, verdigris has spread across the entire surface.

□ Size:  H 18.1in × 11.8in x9.8in  (about H46cm x 30cm x 25cm ）
□ Weight : 30.4lb lbs(13.8kg)
□ Material : bronze

condition...
It is in good condition, but there are rust scratches and dirt due to aging.  It is in good condition for use.