In Japan there is a doll for every ceremony and occasion—and a number of different types of dolls are sold at most Shinto shrines. I bought this beautifully painted ceramic doll (one of many shapes) at the Sensoji Shrine in Tokyo, and ever since I’ve been puzzling about its purpose. It’s hollow, and has a bead and a soundhole, so I suppose it’s a bell though it’s got more of a rattle than a ring. Maybe I’ll take it back with me for the Hina Matsuri (doll festival). Till then it sits pretty in my faux bonsai garden.