China
Bell (Duo)
INV-1449
ChinaEastern Zhou dynasty, Warring States period (480–221 BCE), 4th century BCE
Bell (Duo)
China
Chinese (culture or style)bronzeasian art
Date
Eastern Zhou dynasty, Warring States period (480–221 BCE), 4th century BCE
Medium
Bronze inlaid with gold
Dimensions
H.: 8.2 cm (3 1/4 in.)
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Location
Chicago, IL
Credit
Gift of Dorothy Braude Edinburg to the Harry B. and Bessie K. Braude Memorial Collection
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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