Temple Banner for the "Kanjō" Ceremony

Ban are a type of banner used in Buddhist ceremonies, and kanjoban were a particularly luxurious type with an added umbrella-like structure. In the seventh and eighth centuries, kanjoban were used at memorial services held on the one-year anniversary of an Emperor’s death, at ceremonies commemorating the completion of a temple, and other such events. However, it is unknown what this particular kanjoban was made for. It is currently being exhibited separated into its component parts, but you will find an elaborate reproduction of the banner hanging from the tall ceilings of the stairwell, and can get a glimpse of what it would have looked like when it was made.

It is thought that the banner originally had colourful silk streamers that extended its length to more than ten metres. The main body of the banner is gilt bronze/copper with openwork images of Buddhas, celestial beings, and with arabesque and other patterns. Take a look at the larger banner. We see celestial beings playing music and bearing offerings of flowers and incense. Their fluttering garments and flowing forms provide a glimpse of the magnificence of Asuka-period metalwork.

— Museum description: Tokyo National Museum (CC BY 4.0), via ColBase / Japan Search.