This charming vintage dorei (土鈴) clay bell comes from Nasu (那須), Japan, and is shaped as a Japanese aubergine, or nasu (茄子). With its rounded purple body, sculpted leafy calyx, and rustic braided cord, the piece has the warm, expressive character associated with traditional Japanese folk crafts.
The aubergine is an especially auspicious motif in Japanese culture. The word nasu can also evoke 成す (nasu), meaning “to accomplish,” “to achieve,” or “to bring something to fruition,” giving the eggplant associations with success, fulfilment, and good fortune.
It is also closely connected with hatsuyume (初夢), the first dream of the New Year. According to the famous saying “Ichi-Fuji, ni-taka, san-nasu” (一富士二鷹三茄子) — “First Mount Fuji, second a hawk, third an eggplant” — dreaming of these three subjects is traditionally considered particularly lucky for the year ahead.
As a dorei, this piece also belongs to Japan’s tradition of small earthenware bells produced as regional souvenirs, seasonal decorations, and good-luck charms. Combining the identity of Nasu with the playful and auspicious nasu motif, it is a delightful example of Japanese folk craft and wordplay.
Size: 5 x 5 x 6cm
