Shingon ritual objects

source: Kakudo, The Art of Japan, 216-17.

These two objects, known as a rei (bell) and kongōsho (thunderbolt), were used in Shingon ceremonies. The thunderbolt (L. 18.7 cm. 7.375 in.) (W. 4.4 cm. 1.75 in.) is styled after an ancient India throwing weapon and was used to define the space for ritual practice and protect the worshipper. The bell (H. 19 cm. 7.5 in.) was used for its sound, pleasing to both the worshipper and the diety.