Vintage Japanese Clay Bell Dorei 

This is a vintage Japanese clay bell or dorei. Representing a man wearing a big round yellow object on his chest and a green hat, this bell has a round shape. The man is likely a character named Kitahachi, one of the two travelers from the book “Tokaidochu Hizakurige”. This dorei has a small clay ball inside and a braided orange string tied at the top. A paper with inscriptions is attached.

Dorei bells have a long history and have been used in festivals and ceremonies since the Jomon period (about 13000 to 2300 years ago) when they were said to have the power to ward off evil spirits.

• Light gray, yellow, green, black
• Clay, string, paper
• C1970
• Some characters on paper: 喜多八 Kitahachi
• Item weight:  68 grams
• Packed weight: 268 grams
• (Without string) Approx. 5 cm long x 4.5 cm wide x 6.8 cm tall
• Good condition. Some stains on paper. Some marks. Discoloration on string. Wear and tear due to age. Please see the photos carefully.
• This piece was purchased at the famous Osu Antique Market in Nagoya

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About Us: We are Dan and Maiko. Since moving to Japan in 2001, we have gained a vast knowledge of Japanese antiques and vintage items. We are excited to offer you a delightful glimpse of the beauty that Japan has to offer. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.