This dorei (土鈴) clay bell is a delightful example of Nogomi Ningyō (のごみ人形), a traditional folk toy from Tara in Nagasaki Prefecture. Shaped in the form of a white mouse (nezumi), the figure is hand-painted with vibrant hues—bold red around the eyes, a navy-black top, and decorative green and red markings along the side. Its whiskers and eyes are delicately rendered, giving the mouse a watchful, almost mischievous charm. A simple straw cord is tied through the bell for hanging, reinforcing its rustic, handmade character.
Mice have long been regarded in Japanese folklore as messengers of the god Daikokuten, one of the Seven Lucky Gods associated with wealth and good fortune. As such, mouse-shaped bells are often considered auspicious, believed to invite prosperity and protection.
Nogomi Ningyō are crafted from natural clay and have been passed down through generations by local artisans. Originally made as talismans or children’s toys, they embody the spirit of Japanese folk art—humble, expressive, and deeply rooted in regional culture. When shaken, the bell emits a soft, earthy chime, making it not only a decorative piece but a symbolic charm of blessing and goodwill.
