Dōtaku

The flow of new peoples from Korea to Japan during the Yayoi period brought new technologies of bronze and iron casting. Similarly, the form of the dōtaku, or bronze bell, is thought to have originated in Korea. The original Korean prototypes—stout, thickly cast bells—were transformed in Japan into sculptural forms with sophisticated surface decoration. These dōtaku are often uncovered near burial sites paired with a metal spear or sword nearby, suggesting ceremonial importance.