Mokugyo (木魚)
Not on view
Small hand-held mokugyos, and large ones resting on cushions, are used to accompany chants (sutras) in Taoist and Buddhist ceremonies. The handles of this slit drums are decorated with stylized fish, which hold in their mouths a ball, symbol of the universe. Having no eyelids, the fish symbolizes wakeful attention and vigilance in devotion.
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