This hand-crafted dorei clay bell takes the form of a Kiso horse (木曽馬) a beloved native Japanese horse breed historically associated with the mountainous Kiso region in Nagano Prefecture. The bell features a rustic red saddle and a braided rope, reflecting the bell’s origins in traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
The poetic calligraphy hand-painted around its body, referencing the Kiso-ji (木曽路)—an ancient route that formed part of the Nakasendō, one of the five major highways of the Edo period. The inscriptions evoke the beauty and solitude of the mountain paths, and the enduring spirit of the Kiso region’s travelers, woods, and deep forests. Such verses often reflect yūgen (幽玄)—the Japanese aesthetic of quiet profundity and subtle grace.
Whether admired as a collectible folk craft, a symbol of regional identity, or a nostalgic tribute to Japan’s historic travel roads and rural traditions, this Kiso-uma dorei bell carries with it a soft, gentle chime and a sense of place steeped in history.
Kindly review the photos for details on the item’s condition. Size: 8 x 8 x 10cm
