A charming Japanese Dragon Dorei clay bell (辰・土鈴) by Yakushigama (薬師窯), created as an auspicious zodiac ornament celebrating the Dragon (Tatsu / 辰) of the Japanese zodiac.
This delightful piece depicts the dragon in a wonderfully rounded and friendly folk-art form, finished in a fresh light green with simple hand-painted facial details. Resting over its shoulder is a striking golden hōju (宝珠), or sacred wish-fulfilling jewel, tied with a red cord and accented in silver. The combination of vivid green, red, silver and gold gives the little dragon a cheerful yet distinctly auspicious character.
The hōju is an important Buddhist and Japanese decorative symbol, often shown in association with dragons. Traditionally understood as a precious jewel capable of fulfilling wishes, it represents spiritual wealth, blessings and the fulfillment of desires. Together with the dragon—an ancient symbol of strength, vitality, protection and prosperity—it creates a particularly fortunate motif.
Made by Yakushigama (薬師窯), a renowned ceramic producer from Seto, Aichi Prefecture, this piece reflects the long ceramic heritage of the Seto region, whose pottery tradition stretches back more than a thousand years. Yakushigama is particularly celebrated for its traditional Japanese figurines, zodiac animals and folk-inspired auspicious ornaments.
