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Description: | Three fragments from a cast copper alloy bell of probable Roman date (100 - 300 AD). Although the fragments do not fit together it is likely that they come from the same bell. Originally it is likely that the bell was sub-circular in plan and domed or arched (bell shaped) in profile. The largest of the fragments consists of the upper portion of the bell with an integral cast sub-circular suspension loop positioned at the peak of the dome. This loop is complete, however, the upper edge is thinner than the others; this suggests that it has been worn through use. There is no evidence for the clapper on the inside of the bell, although there is a large amount of orange corrosion on all the inner surfaces of all the fragments. This may suggest that the clapper was originally made of iron. The fragments measure 31.3mm x 19.4mm, 21.8mm x 15.4mm, and 22.2mm x 18mm. All the fragments are between1.3 and 1.5mm thick. Their combined weight is 9.2 grams. There is no evidence of either incised or applied decoration on any of the surfaces of the bell. Two of the fragments from the lower part of the bell suggest that it would have had a cast single circumferential ridge position in the lower third of the body. The bell is a mid dark blackish green colour with a good and well formed patina. There are small areas of active light green copper alloy corrosion product present on the inner surface of some of the fragments. It is possible that the outer surface has had an applied surface, which has resulted in the blackish green colour. No close parallels have been found for this bell, however, it is most likely to date from the Roman period. This is based on patina and weight. The shape and function of these bells is relatively unchanged through time therefore it is possible that the bell might date from either the Medieval or post medieval periods (1200-1650). It is highly unlikely that the bell dates from the Early Medieval (450-1100) as bells from this period are relatively well understood and differ greatly from this example.
Original Image | Publisher: | http://finds.org.uk | Source: | Portable Antiquities | Identifier: | http://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/r... | Go to resource |
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