Vintage Large Brass Hand Bell Iron Ball Clapper Metal Capped Wooden Handle
Description: A vintage rather large brass bell having a wooden handle. The bell's handle is made of wood that is painted and lacquered. The handle has a metal (brass?) cap on its top. The bell has an iron ball clapper attached to a ferrous thin long wire which is attached to the top of the interior of the bell. The exterior of the bell is flared at the bottom in a typical hand bell shape. The handle is attached to the top of the bell. The brass portion has a stepped circles at the bottom and an upwards slanted top with a central short column to which the handle is attached. The handle has a bulging shape at the top and fits nicely in your hand. The bell is unmarked and has a beautiful ring. The brass portion has a nice patina, or possibly is dirt from years of use, but could be cleaned to bring out its full beauty. Additionally, the wood handle has wear and soiling to the wood finish from years of use. Please carefully review the photos presented as they are part and parcel of our description.
Date: Uncertain but most likely early to mid 1900's.
Origin: Purchased in an estate auction in Southeastern Pennsylvania.
Size: The bell measures ~9 5/8" high while the base is ~5 3/4” in diameter and the piece weighs about one pound and 10 ounces.
Maker: Unknown.
Marks: Unmarked.
Distinguishing Characteristics - Most Interesting About The Piece: This is a nice vintage bell with an iron ball clapper and having a beautiful ring. It would make a worthy addition to your collection.
Condition: This bell is in very good condition with no dings, breaks or repairs. It does have general minor scratches commensurate with its age and use. It also has general soiling especially on the handle and the brass portion and could probably benefit from a good cleaning and refinishing, but we leave that to the discretion of the new owner. The wood handle has a wear to the finish and soiling from years of use. The brass cap on top of the handle appears to be missing a cover, but you be the judge (we are presenting several photos for you to assess). The entire piece has scratches to the surface as well as some small green spots indicative of onset of oxidation, which will more than likely clean easily. All of these issues can be seen in the photos. Be that as it may, the piece is solid, has a nice ring and is great looking. Please see photos for additional condition information.
