Antique Japanese Buddhist Mokugyo Temple Wood Block Drum Fish Motif Red 22cm

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Era: Edo end to Meiji
It produces a fine, resonant sound characteristic of a mokugyo.

This is an authentic antique Japanese Mokugyo (木魚), a traditional wooden percussion instrument used by monks during Buddhist chanting and rituals. Known as a "Wooden Fish Drum," this piece comes from a Japanese temple and carries the profound energy of years of spiritual use.

The Mokugyo is hand-carved from a single block of wood and features the classic design of two stylized fish heads meeting at a central jewel on the handle. The body is intricately decorated with hand-carved fish scales, symbolizing wakefulness and a mind that never sleeps—key principles in Buddhist practice.

Key Features:

• Temple Provenance: This is a genuine temple object, showing the rich character and soul of a functional ritual tool.

• Traditional Lacquer: The drum is finished in a traditional cinnabar red lacquer with black accents. Over time, the lacquer has aged and worn away in areas, revealing the beautiful, seasoned wood grain beneath and telling the story of its historical use.

• Artisan Carving: The heavy, solid carving produces a deep, resonant, and meditative sound when struck. The fish scale details and the powerful symmetry of the handle reflect high-quality traditional craftsmanship.

• Powerful Presence: Its weathered appearance makes it a perfect addition to a Zen-style interior, a meditation room, or a collection of sacred Japanese art.

Size (Approx.):

• Height: 22.0 cm / 8.7 in

• Width: 20.0 cm / 7.9 in

• Depth: 14.0 cm / 5.5 in

• Weight: 900 g / 1.98 lbs

Condition: Authentic antique condition. As a genuine temple item with significant age, it shows extensive wear to the lacquer finish, including peeling and fading, which contributes to its "Wabi-sabi" aesthetic. There are natural aging marks and scuffs on the wood, but the structure remains solid and functional. Please carefully inspect the photos to appreciate the historic texture and the hand-carved details.