This dorei clay bell from Ise Jingū (伊勢神宮) takes the form of a stylized mouse, crafted from smooth, unglazed ceramic in a soft natural tone. Its minimalist form is both playful and refined, with subtle modeling for the ears and a gracefully arched tail that doubles as a handle for the attached braided white cord. Stamped on the side is the mark of 五十鈴 (Isuzu), a reference to the sacred Isuzu River that flows through the shrine grounds of Ise Jingū.
This bell is part of the traditional Gojūsu-zuzu (五十鈴鈴), meaning "Fifty Bells," an auspicious item made to commemorate shrine visits and special zodiac years. The bell’s mouse shape signifies the zodiac animal of the Year of the Rat (子), the first in the 12-year cycle, symbolizing cleverness, resourcefulness, and a new beginning. The clay used in its making is said to be collected from the upper stream of the Isuzu River and fired at a dedicated shrine kiln, lending spiritual purity to the piece.
A treasured item tied to Japan’s most sacred Shintō site, this dorei embodies both craftsmanship and spiritual symbolism, ideal as a collector’s piece or a meaningful gift for protection and good fortune.
