This snake dorei (土鈴) clay bell is produced by Yakushigama (薬師窯), a well-known ceramic workshop in Seto, Aichi Prefecture, one of Japan’s historic pottery centers with a ceramic tradition spanning more than a thousand years. Yakushigama is especially recognized for its beautifully crafted zodiac figurines and auspicious ornaments made in the warm folk style of Seto ware.
The bell is shaped as a stylized white snake, representing the Year of the Snake (巳) in the Japanese zodiac. The figure has a smooth, rounded form and a gentle expression with bright eyes and an open mouth, giving it a friendly and auspicious character. A decorative circular panel on the body features traditional Japanese motifs such as plum blossoms and seasonal patterns rendered in red, gold, and green, symbolizing prosperity, renewal, and good fortune. A red-and-white braided cord is attached at the top, enhancing its festive appearance and allowing it to be hung as a charm.
The figure is hollow with a small pellet inside that produces a soft, pleasant chime when moved. In Japanese folk belief, the sound of clay bells is thought to purify the surroundings, ward off misfortune, and invite blessings into the home.
The snake is regarded as a guardian of wealth and transformation, associated with renewal because of its ability to shed its skin. Snake motifs are therefore often displayed as charms for financial prosperity, protection, and good luck.
Size: 9 x 5 x 8cm
