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Chinese Ming Iron Bell with Dragon Handle, c. 1600

$24,780
£18,421.11
€21,565.14
CA$34,656.64
A$38,695.05
CHF 20,184.39
MX$475,813.17
NOK 254,752.14
SEK 239,840.17
DKK 160,876.03
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About the Item

This monumental Ming-dynasty bell once pealed in a Chinese village, sounding out in celebration or giving notice of important events. Expertly forged, the cast-iron bell is detailed with characters in intricate relief, and its exaggerated scallop rim is traced with oversized rivets. Covered in scales and ending in expressive faces, the bell's handle is cast in the form of a two-headed hong dragon, thought to be the embodiment of a rainbow and thus visible only after rainfall. Frosted with snow or lit from within by flickering candles, this sculptural bell takes on a magical presence in the winter garden.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 29.25 in (74.3 cm)Diameter: 24 in (60.96 cm)
  • Style:
    Ming (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Iron,Cast
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
    Early 17th Century
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1600
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Chicago, IL
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: R2381stDibs: LU820011688613

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