Lot 73: Large Cast Metal Hand Bell with Turned Hardwood Handle
A large vintage-style hand bell, constructed from heavy cast metal, likely brass or bronze. The bell body exhibits a rounded shoulder and a wide, flared mouth, with faint horizontal lathe-turning marks visible on the exterior surface. It is fitted with a dark-stained, turned hardwood handle featuring decorative incised ring details and a rounded pommel. The handle is secured to the bell by a metal cap and nut assembly. On the upper shoulder of the bell, near the handle joint, there are faint incised characters; however, these markings are heavily worn and obscured by surface oxidation and are not legible as a name or specific mark. A small, bright orange adhesive price or inventory sticker is present on the upper shoulder of the bell. The interior is fitted with a metal clapper.
Condition report:
The metal bell body shows significant surface oxidation and a mottled grey-green patina across the entire exterior (photo 1). There are numerous surface scratches, small nicks, and areas of darkening consistent with age and utilitarian use. The wooden handle shows light wear to the polished finish, particularly at the contact points and the pommel (photo 1). The metal hardware at the top of the handle shows surface tarnishing. The orange sticker is a modern addition and not part of the original object.
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