Vintage Japanese Zodiac Animal Rat Small Ceramic Bell 2”

Clay bells (dorei) have been a part of Japanese culture for a long time – bells have been found that date back to the prehistoric Jomon period in Japan (10,000 B.C. – 3,000 B.C.). They were thought to be effective against evil spirits. In modern times, the small bells have become popular souvenir items and can be found for sale at temples, shrines and gift and souvenir shops. They are often given or purchased at New Years, especially bells depicting the current year’s zodiac animal.This is a small ceramic animal based on the 12 Chinese zodiac beasts. Each year people will put and change out the zodiac animals on display in their homes to bring good fortune. These little bells are a traditional way to call good fortune to you at the beginning of the year.

This one is in the shape of a rat/mouse and stands Apx3” tall and has a small chip on the bottom where it’s not seen but is otherwise in good shape.