A vintage hand-crafted dorei (土鈴, clay bell) depicts the legendary final stand of Benkei, the loyal warrior monk from Japanese medieval history and folklore.
弁慶の立ち往生 (Benkei no Tachiōjō) – Benkei’s Standing Death: In the famous story, Benkei served Minamoto no Yoshitsune, one of Japan’s most celebrated military heroes. At the battle of Koromogawa, as enemy forces closed in on Yoshitsune’s castle, Benkei held the bridge alone, allowing his lord time to prepare for the inevitable end.
Riddled with arrows, Benkei finally died on his feet, spear in hand, so fierce in his loyalty and strength that his enemies feared to approach him, thinking he was still alive. This heroic “standing death” became a lasting symbol of unwavering courage, loyalty, and bushidō spirit.
The Ōtsu-e folk art version, with its bold colors and stylized features, adds a touch of humor and humanity to this tragic yet inspiring tale. When the bell is rung, it echoes the bravery of a warrior whose legend endures across centuries.
