A vintage hand-crafted dorei (土鈴, clay bell) depicts Minamoto no Tametomo, a famed warrior of the late Heian period, remembered as an uncle of the legendary Minamoto no Yoshitsune. Tametomo was celebrated for his extraordinary skill with the bow, so much so that tales of his unmatched strength and archery spread widely. Despite this, his life was marked by misfortune, which made him especially beloved among common people who often sympathized with tragic heroes.
This clay bell portrays Tametomo in vivid colors, wearing bright green and yellow robes, gripping an arrow with a stern and powerful expression. A bow is slung across his back, emphasizing his identity as the master archer. The rustic charm and bold colors typical of Ōtsu-e art enhance the lively yet approachable character of the figure.
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.
