What is the DOGU ?

Do you know the DOGU? DOGU is a clay figure made at Jomon period. This type of figure is called 'snow goggle-eyed figure'(Syakou-ki-dogu in Japanese). Many versions of this figure have been unearthed, almost always broken as if on purpose. Many archaeologists believe that the shaman would transfer pain, particularly that of childbirth, into the figure and then smash it, thereby 'releasing' the pain.
However, we may never find out the real reason, and the purpose of the DOGU may be unknown forever.