About this artwork
This small bell was designed with a clapper of bronze or bone (now lost) that was suspended from the short, hollow shank. It may have been used as a handbell to convey signals in military maneuvers. Much of its finely cast decoration—intertwined snakes and densely textured curls—is now camouflaged by surface corrosion. Traces of delicate gold-wire scrollwork are still visible near the rim. A diamond-like pattern with curvilinear motifs decorates the interior.
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Status
- On View, Gallery 132
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Department
- Arts of Asia
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Title
- Bell (Duo)
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Place
- China (Artist's nationality:)
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Date
- 400 BCE–301 BCE
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Medium
- Bronze inlaid with gold
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Dimensions
- H.: 8.2 cm (3 1/4 in.)
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Credit Line
- Gift of Dorothy Braude Edinburg to the Harry B. and Bessie K. Braude Memorial Collection
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Reference Number
- 1996.80
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IIIF Manifest
- https://api.artic.edu/api/v1/artworks/144967/manifest.json