Vintage Japanese Zodiac Animal Rat Small Ceramic Bell 2” Modern art White and dark blue liner

White and dark blue liner

Made for military awards in the early Showa era c 1920's and 1930's

A cluster of small spots is visible near the lower hem

Weight = 2lb 5oz

it remains invery good condition

Vintage Japanese Zodiac Animal Rat Small Ceramic Bell 2” Modern art White and dark blue linerClay 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