Ritual Water Vessel (Kendi)

Currently not on view

Ritual Water Vessel (Kendi)

Mid- to late 14th century

Artist/maker unknown, Japanese

In traditional Buddhism, the ritual water vessel (kendi) was one of eighteen possessions permitted to monks, who used them to pour water for hand washing during purification rites. Adherents of Buddhism later came to use these ewers as well, placing them on altars in front of images of the Buddha.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Ritual Water Vessel (Kendi)

Date:

Mid- to late 14th century

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, Japanese

Medium:

Lacquer and gilt on wood with incised decoration

Dimensions:

9 1/2 × 8 inches (24.1 × 20.3 cm)

Classification:

Containers

Credit Line:

Purchased with the Henry B. Keep Fund, 2003

Accession Number:

2003-178-1

Geography:

Made in Japan, Asia

Context:

Period: Nanbokuchō Period (1333-1392)

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Currently not on view