Handcrafted Jomon Dogu Figure – Gassho-Dogu (Praying Figurine) with Red Ochre Finish
Details
She sits in a posture of perpetual prayer. This replica is based on a particularly evocative Gassho-Dogu, or praying dogu, from the Late Jomon period (c. 1500–1000 BCE). Her serene and grounded form continues to inspire quiet reflection and reverence.
This figure is especially remarkable not only for her form but for the story of her discovery. She was found lying on her side on the floor of a pit dwelling, as if in sleep, though this was likely not her original position. Archaeologists suggest she may once have stood on an internal wall, facing the entrance to the house—greeting those who entered.
At some point, she fell from her place and was broken. This is a common trait in Dogu figures, which were often deliberately broken, buried, or discarded after ritual use. However, this figure was repaired—traces of natural asphalt on the cracked left leg show that her Jomon owner took the time to carefully mend her, a sign of her significance.
Another detail that sets her apart is the evidence that she was once entirely painted in red. For this replica, we have chosen to recreate her painted state, using a natural red ochre pigment similar in character to the original.
The detailed depiction of female genitalia, combined with her mask-like facial features, has led to speculation that she may represent fertility, ritual dress, or spiritual guardianship. As with all Dogu, her exact meaning remains open to interpretation—what does she represent to you?
This figure was created as part of our work for the Circles of Stone: Stonehenge and Prehistoric Japan exhibition, currently on display at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre. This unique exhibition draws a parallel between the Jomon culture of Japan and Neolithic Britain, exploring two prehistoric societies united by deep connections to nature and their ancestors.
Limited Edition*
We make only a small number of these figures for public sale each year—typically five or fewer.
Period
Late Jomon period (c. 1500–1000 BCE)
Materials
Smoke-fired terracotta with natural red ochre pigment
Dimensions
Height: Approx. 200 mm
Width: Approx. 90 mm
Depth: Approx. 100 mm
Production
Each piece is hand-built from clays similar in composition to those used by ancient Jomon potters. It has been fired in a wood fire to achieve an authentic surface finish. Where tool marks are evident on original pieces, we have recreated the tools using stone, wood, shell, bone, and antler, based on archaeological evidence.
Firing
This figure has been fired using a specialist method to emulate ancient open firing conditions, in close contact with wood fuel. While ancient firings often resulted in low-strength ceramics, we have fired this piece to a somewhat higher temperature, strengthening it while maintaining its authentic visual character, including the subtle tonal variations left by the flames.
Ordering Information
'Add to Basket' Items: Ready to ship immediately.
'Pre-order' Items: Handmade to order within 90 days (longer for international orders). If your order includes both 'Add to Basket' and 'Pre-order' items, they will be shipped together once all items are ready.
Shipping
All items are sent via second-class postal service as standard.
If you require first-class shipping, please contact us for a custom quote.
Postage Note: All items are carefully packaged to ensure they arrive in perfect condition.
Invite this powerful figure into your home, painted just as she once was over 3,000 years ago. A connection to ancient Japan, reimagined with care.
