This pair of vintage dorei (clay bells) are crafted in the likeness of traditional Hina Ningyō (雛人形), the ornamental dolls displayed during Japan’s Hinamatsuri (Girls’ Day). Created by Harada Hanzō, a notable artisan of Tsuyazaki Ningyō (津屋崎人形) from Fukuoka Prefecture, these bells reflect a deep-rooted folk art tradition known for its earthy textures and regional motifs.
Harada Hanzō was a craftsman associated with the folk art tradition of Tsuyazaki Ningyō, a regional clay doll craft from the Tsuyazaki area of Fukuoka Prefecture. The Harada family has been one of the principal makers of Tsuyazaki Ningyō, with several generations involved in doll-making. Harada Hanzō’s workshop, known as 原田半蔵人形店, was a separate branch within the larger Harada lineage, and for a long time was active in producing traditional dolls under his name. His works, such as ox-riding Tenjin figures, zodiac animals, or Hina dolls, are still found among vintage folk toy collections in Japan. His workshop remained active until around 2018, when its operations quietly ended due to old age or retirement.
Hand-formed from natural clay and painted in vibrant hues, the male figure (obina) wears a green robe with golden motifs and a tall cap, while the female figure (mebina) is adorned in red with floral patterns and holds a delicately painted fan. Each figure features a hollow base with a small ceramic pellet inside, producing a soft, soothing chime when shaken it believed to invite good fortune and ward off evil spirits.
