This delightful pair of dorei clay bells represents a traditional Hina Ningyō (雛人形) couple—figures commonly displayed during Hinamatsuri, the Japanese Doll Festival celebrated on March 3rd. These bells are crafted in the distinctive Tsuyazaki Ningyō (津屋崎人形) style, a folk craft originating from Tsuyazaki in Fukuoka Prefecture, known for its vibrant, handmade clay dolls.
The origins of Tsuyazaki Ningyō date back over 150 years, during the late Edo period, when they were created by local potters who were inspired by the more well-known Hakata dolls. Unlike their elegant cousins, Tsuyazaki dolls retain a rustic, playful charm, emphasizing folk simplicity over refinement. These clay dolls and bells were traditionally made as toys for children and as protective charms, and they often depicted animals, deities, or human figures tied to festivals and regional folklore.
The pair features a male doll (Obina) in a green robe and a female doll (Mebina) in red-orange, both hand-painted with charming expressions and gold detailing. The round shapes and expressive features capture the rustic beauty of local craftsmanship. As dorei bells, they produce a gentle chime when shaken—believed to ward off evil and invite good fortune.
