Ceramic Kawara Bell with Kamon Crest 家紋 – Japan Antique Roadshow

🎎 This charming Japanese ceramic bell takes the form of a kawara 瓦—a traditional roof tile used across Japan for centuries. Specifically, it mimics the onigawara 鬼瓦 or end cap tile that often adorned the corners and eaves of temples, shrines, and vernacular homes. These tiles were not only functional—protecting buildings from wind and rain—but also deeply symbolic. Their surfaces commonly bore motifs like mythical creatures, Buddhist symbols, or kamon 家紋 (family crests), believed to guard against misfortune and fire.

This bell, made from the same clay material and darkened tone used in genuine kawara, features a delicate flower crest, likely a stylized mon 紋 identifying a specific family or lineage. The form is compact—8 cm across by 4 cm deep—and weighs about 20 grams. When gently shaken, the internal clapper emits a soft ring. The Japanese script along the side (currently undeciphered) adds intrigue and hints at its maker or purpose.

Condition-wise, the bell bears some edge wear and a small chip at the lower rim, which only enhances its wabi-sabi 侘寂 aesthetic—Japan’s reverence for imperfection, impermanence, and the beauty of age. Likely crafted in the mid to late Showa 昭和 era (1926–1989), this small piece holds big cultural significance.

More than a decorative object, this kawara bell embodies the enduring spirit of mingei 民芸—Japan’s folk craft movement—celebrating objects made with heart, by hand, for daily life.

Welcome to the Japan Antique Roadshow channel. My name is Kurt Bell and I am delighted that you have taken some time to share a little of Japan with me. I’m available on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and via email (email address listed below) if you have questions or just want to chat and say hi. I look forward to meeting you online. Have a great day!

Curated by Kurt Bell in Shizuoka City, this artifact captures a humble yet storied expression of Japanese traditional architecture and domestic life, preserved in miniature.

Embark with Kurt, an American journeyman born in 1964, as he delves into Japan’s rich mosaic of art, tradition, and spirituality. His book Going Alone is a personal reflection on his life’s journey and the philosophy he’s developed along the way—offering insight into solitude, courage, and the pursuit of a meaningful life. 🌄📚🎎

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CREDITS:

“Japanese Falls” image: Lane Brown | View More: http://lanebrownart.blogspot.com/p/portfolio.html

“Song For Kurt” theme: Nowherians | Listen Here: http://nowherians.bandcamp.com/