Gilded Copper And Shakudo Keman. Japan Edo Period.

Keman in cut copper, chiseled and gilded with mercury. Some details are in shakudo (gold and copper alloy). This type of Keman already existed in the 13th century during the Kamakura period but they were copied for 600 years, sometimes identically. It is therefore difficult to date them with certainty. As the function of the Keman was to be hung in the temples, replacing the true flowers, they were little handled and the oldest sometimes show no wear or patina. The one presented here does not seem to be earlier than the Edo period. The engraved inscription in the center may indicate a precise date and place. Large: 31cm Total height with bells: 44cm