This vintage dorei (土鈴) clay bell captures the gentle elegance of the Hakata Ningyō tradition from Fukuoka, Japan. Shaped in the form of a serene young woman with long flowing hair and peaceful expression, she gently rests her cheek on her hand, holding a delicate pink and blue flowers.
Rendered in soft white tones with subtle accents of pink, green, and brown, this bell is imbued with a tranquil atmosphere. The red hair ornament on her head adds a lovely contrast, while the hand-painted floral motifs highlight the refined craftsmanship typical of Hakata dolls.
In 1976, Hakata ningyō were officially recognized by the Japanese government as a Traditional Craft (伝統的工芸品), a testament to their cultural importance and the skill required to create them. Today, many artisans in Fukuoka continue to preserve and innovate this art form, passing down techniques from one generation to the next. Through their enduring beauty and connection to everyday life, Hakata dolls remain a cherished part of Japan’s cultural heritage.
