1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle

1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle

1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle
Large, heavy Saignelegier / Chiantel Fondeur bell marked 1878. Features an unusual center-mounted handbell-style handle configuration rather than the much more commonly encountered top-loop livestock-bell arrangement. Bell measures approximately 5 inches across the mouth and approximately 7+ inches overall with handle, and weighs 2 lb.

The bell body is a heavy cast copper-alloy/brass-bronze type metal with raised floral decoration and period-style lettering. The turned center handle has a noticeably more copper-colored appearance than the bell body. Interior includes a substantial clapper and hand-fitted center suspension assembly.

All major metal components tested nonmagnetic with a strong magnet. The center hardware shows hand machining/fitting characteristics, including turned threads and finishing/tool marks. The bell has an aged surface, patina, scratches, casting irregularities and general wear consistent with its pictured condition. Important: The bell is marked "1878 Saignelegier / Chiantel Fondeur, " but I have not professionally authenticated its exact date of manufacture. Later reproductions of this historic bell pattern are also known.

Bell and clapper are intact and it produces a strong ringing tone. Please examine all photographs closely.

Heavy vintage cast bell with age-related patina, oxidation, scratches, casting/finish irregularities and wear. Unusual center-mounted turned handle and clapper assembly.

Marked 1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur. Exact age/origin not authenticated; please see all photos.


1878 Saignelegier Chiantel Fondeur Brass Bell 5 Rare Center Copper Handle