This study analyzes the composition and iconographic characteristics of incense implements (xiangju) excavated from the underground palace of Famen Temple (Famensi), based on the Esoteric Buddhist character of the Tang imperial court. By comparing these artifacts with the ritual systems described in the Famen Temple Inventory of Offerings (Famensi yiwuzhang) and Esoteric scriptures such as the Mahavairocana Tantra (Dainichikyō), this paper examines the development of Esoteric Buddhist incense culture during the Tang Dynasty.
The findings reveal that the incense implements from the Famen Temple underground palace perfectly embody the ritual offering system of scented paste (tuxiang), burning incense (shaoxiang), and ritual water (argha), as prescribed in Esoteric texts. In other words, conceptual ritual norms were empirically manifested through a combination of artifacts, including incense boxes, censers, and argha vessels. Furthermore, the arrangement of objects in the rear chamber of the underground palace is closely linked to the mandala configuration described in the Ritual Procedures for Recitation of the Usnisa Vijaya Dharani, confirming that these implements functioned as essential offerings for the enshrinement of Buddhist relics and the well-being of the imperial family. Ultimately, the incense implements of the Famen Temple underground palace transcended mere offerings; they served as symbolic mediums merging imperial authority with Esoteric faith, acting as ritual conduits connecting the secular and sacred realms. This study is significant in that it reconstructs aspects of Tang Esoteric Buddhist rituals through the analysis of excavated artifacts, shedding light on practices that have long remained obscure.