Not currently on display at the V&A

Bell

3rd quarter 19th century (made)
Artist/Maker
Unknown
Place of origin
Burma (made)

Traditional dome shaped bell flaring slightly at the base.
Geometric patterns encircle the shoulder with concentric rings around the base and waist. The holding ring is embellished with a pair of seated chinthei (guardian lions)


Object details

Category
India Museum
Object type
Bell
Materials and techniques
Incised cast metal with traces of gilding.
Metal
Gold Leaf
Casting
Incising
Gilding
Brief description
Burmese cast metal bell with traces of gilding. Konbaung Dynasty (1752-1885). Incised with concentric circles and geometric patterns on the body and a pair of seated chinthei on the holding handle. ca. 3rd quarter 19th century.
Physical description
Traditional dome shaped bell flaring slightly at the base.
Geometric patterns encircle the shoulder with concentric rings around the base and waist. The holding ring is embellished with a pair of seated chinthei (guardian lions)
Dimensions
  • Height: 13cm
  • Of base diameter: 9.2cm
Style
Konbaung
Object history
Historical significance: Bells of all sizes were presented as an act of merit to a pagoda.
Production
Attribution note: Question whether the bell is cast iron gilded or cast bronze
Collection
South & South East Asia Collection
Accession number
9344(IS)

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Record createdMarch 13, 2001
Record URL
https://collections.vam.ac.uk/item/O56675/bell-unknown/
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