Antique Circa 19th Century Brass Crotal Sleigh Cow Bell

Up for your consideration this Antique Crotal Bell in the perfect working state. It measures approximately 4" high and 3" in diameter. It seems it has been heavily used back in a days, and if there was a maker mark somewhere it got completely wiped out. Also, the suspension loop looks like a keyhole. It features an "old-style design" with engraved lines forming eye-like patterns and a slit for sound.

An internal clapper produces a distinct sleigh or cow bell sound. Crotal bells, also known as rumble bells, were used on horse-drawn vehicles before motor vehicles were common. They were often made of bronze with a slot cut down the side. These bells were used to warn other users of horse-drawn vehicles (mostly on country roads) that another vehicle was approaching. In Europe crotal bells were made from before the early Middle Ages; though many founders cast bells of this type, the Robert Wells bell foundry of Aldbourne, Wiltshire, produced the largest range.

The first medieval designs came in two separate halves into which a metal pea was introduced and the two halves were then soldered or crimped together. Somewhere around 1400 they were cast in a single piece with a ball of metal inside.

I found no significant condition issues with the item, but signs of previous use and ownership should be expected consistent with its vintage timeline and should be taken into consideration with age and ownership. Please note: I will accept any reasonable offer.

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