Dobachi

Etymology and Alternative Spellings

Japanese Temple Bell

Construction

Shape: Bowl Like
Materials: Bronze
Dimensions: 11" (Diameter); 7" (Height)

History

The dobachi is a bronze resting bell associated with Japanese Buddhist practices. It is found both in Buddhist temples and as part of shrines in the homes of Buddhist practitioners. It might best be thought of as a sonic ritual instrument rather than as a musical instrument. Although in general it is used to mark the beginnings and ends of segments of a temple service (chanting, meditation, etc.), its precise use varies from one setting to another. Perhaps in part for this reason it is known by several different names; this page could have been headed by a number of different Japanese names, in particular: kin; rin, or uchinarashi, for example. But there are a few major museum collections (Metropolitan Museum of Art, Hartenberger, MIMO) possessing such resting bells labeled as dobachi, and so we have chosen to follow suit by favoring this name for such bells. In addition to its traditional use as a sound-producing ritual instrument for Buddhist services, the dobachi has been appropriated by some contemporary composers for their musical compositions.

Sticks, Mallets, Beaters

A lacquer-painted wooden beater partially wrapped in leather .

Technique

Strike the bell on its rim to produce a sustained, steady pitch which is left to fade away naturally.