This vintage dorei (clay bell) depicts an Ohinasama—the traditional female doll figure celebrated during Japan’s Hinamatsuri (Doll’s Festival). Handmade and painted with great care, the bell features a serene female face framed in a beautifully floral-patterned kimono. The bright orange and green hues, accented with white blossoms, give the bell a vibrant yet gentle aesthetic.
The head is topped with a dome-shaped brown and gold headdress, and a red hanging cord is attached, making it ideal for display. The soft rattle inside emits a warm, delicate sound when shaken, in keeping with the soothing nature of folk bells.
This piece originates from Dazaifu Tenmangū in Fukuoka Prefecture, a shrine dedicated to Tenjin, the Shinto god of learning. Souvenirs from Dazaifu often reflect cultural motifs of protection, prosperity, and seasonal celebration. As such, this bell is not just decorative—it also holds symbolic meaning for well-being and happiness, especially for young girls.
