Ritual Staff (Shakujō)
In Japan, the shakujō usually consists of a wooden handle or pole topped with a metal finial with two sections, each with three rings. When begging, a monk rattles this staff to announce his arrival at the door or gate of a household without breaking his vow of silence. The shakujō is still used by followers of shugendō, an ascetic Buddhist practice undertaken in mountainous areas.
Artwork Details
- 銅錫杖頭
- Title: Ritual Staff (Shakujō)
- Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
- Date: early 19th century
- Culture: Japan
- Medium: Bronze; handle of lacquered wood with silk cord
- Dimensions: L. 19 in. (48.3 cm)
- Classification: Metalwork
- Credit Line: Gift of Mrs. Howard Mansfield, 1949
- Object Number: 49.46.2a, b
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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