File:Incomplete decorated cast copper alloy spherical crotal bell of seventeenth century date (AD 1600 - AD 1700). (FindID 103922).jpg

English: Incomplete decorated cast copper alloy spherical “crotal” bell of seventeenth century date (AD 1600 - AD 1700). Length 47mm, maximum diameter 38mm. Weight 62.46g.

The sub-rectangular suspension loop at the top is about 11mm long, 13mm wide and 5mm thick and has a sub-circular perforation which is about 6mm in diameter. The upper part of the suspension loop is broken and missing. These breaks are old. The upper and lower hemisphere is divided equally by a prominent l horizontal circumferential rib. At either side of the suspension loop, about half way down the side of the upper hemisphere, is a circular sound hole which is about 4mm in diameter. Two slightly larger sound holes in the lower hemisphere are integral with a sound “slit”. The upper and lower hemisphere is decorated with a repeated “sunburst” pattern. At the base of the bell, to one side of the slit, is a shied-shaped area containing a maker’s mark in the form of a “founder’s hammer". The scant remains of an iron “sound-pea”, sub-round in form, remains intact within the bell although it is heavily corroded. The outer surface of the bell is worn and has a shiny brown patina.