18th-19th Century Vajra Bell with Three-Pronged Vajra (Height 13 cm)

18th-19th Century Vajra Bell with Three-Pronged Vajra A rare, repurposed old ritual implement, showing signs of practical use by a practitioner. Japanese Esoteric Buddhist Ritual Implement 18th-19th Century Vajra Bell with Three-Pronged Vajra Approx. 13 cm in height Crafted from brass alloy This piece is a combination of two old ritual implements. The upper part, a three-pronged vajra, is estimated to be from the 18th century. The lower part, the bell base, is in the style of a 19th-century Goyōgeka bell or vajra bell. The two old ritual implements were joined using a hard adhesive. The overall piece bears traces of a Japanese practitioner repurposing and combining existing ritual implements out of necessity for their practice. While old three-pronged vajra bells are already uncommon, repurposed items like this offer a clearer glimpse into the fluidity of ritual implements in actual practice. It is not merely decorative but a religious artifact that has undergone use, adaptation, and continuation. The original clapper is lost. The Japanese modifier has replaced it with a modern copper positioning pin, preserving the bell's form and its resonant sound when shaken. In Esoteric Buddhist traditions, the vajra bell symbolizes the Dharma sound, purification, and the invocation of Dharma protectors. It is suitable for veneration in Buddhist altars, spiritual practice, and meditation. It also serves as a collectible item for Japanese Esoteric Buddhist ritual implements. 4000-115.07.02