This 18th century crotal bell is not the usual offering by SAD Gallery, but a mesmerising artefact such as this is somewhat of a marvel to us.
Unrivalled in the art of crotal bell making, Robert Wells - later handing business to his two sons Robert and James who took over until 1825 - worked in Aldbourne, Wiltshire from 1755 to 1781. The bell-foundry itself was built in the 17th century.
This particular bronze bell features the usual pair of sounding holes and is one of the smallest of at least 30 sizes produced by Wells. The metal pea has been lost to time due to the small piece missing, likely as a result of centuries of being buried in the ground. The rich green/brown patina is what drew us to this example however, and the R W marks are still clear as day as well as the surrounding grooves produced from the original casting. It is by no means a museum piece, but to hold the weight in your hand is quite special.
