Question

Answer the following question in 3-4 complete sentences.

What are dogu? How were they significant to the Japanese during the Jomon period?

Answer 1

Dogu are small clay figurines made by the Jomon people of prehistoric Japan (roughly 14,000–300 BCE), often stylized as humanoid or animal figures and sometimes showing exaggerated features like large eyes or hips. They were created in a wide variety of shapes and sizes and are usually found in ritual contexts or as grave goods. Archaeologists and historians believe dogu served religious and ritual purposes—likely used in fertility rites, healing or protective magic, and shamanic ceremonies—and may have represented deities, ancestors, or spirit helpers. As durable, richly decorated artifacts, dogu provide important evidence about Jomon beliefs, social practices, and artistic skill.