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Description: | An incomplete cast copper alloy crotal or rumbler bell of 18th Century AD dating, made in the Aldbourne factory by William Gwynn between 1770 and 1813 AD.Approximately 50% of the bell is present, in two non joining fragments. consisting of the two lower hemispheres. The top of the bell is missing, including the suspension loop. The 'pea' is missing. The lower hemispheres of the bell have been decorated with a 'sunburst' / arched design. A maker's mark of 'WG' with an annulet to either side of each letter above is located in a circular cartouche at the base of the bell.The bell was cast in one piece, using two opposing moulds. This casting method is indicated by the present of two 'sound holes' which are primarily to assist the positioning of the sand core. This sand core to allow the bell to be cast in one piece as opposed to cast in two separate halves and soldered togther. These two part moulds are split at the central girth rib, and no vertical mould lines are present. The central girth rib performs a useful purpose of accommodating any minor misalignments between the two halves, along with strengthening the bell and preserving the original appearance.The top fragment (marked W) measures 34.8 mm in length, 42.1 mm wide and 2.1 mm thick. It weighs 22.6 g. The other fragment (marked G) measures 37.1 mm in length, 38.1 mm wide and 1.9 mm thick. It weighs 17.5 g. Together both fragments weigh 40.2 g.The bell is a mid green colour, with an even surface patina.The initials present on the base of the bell identify it as probably being made at the Aldbourne factory, by William Gwynn between 1770 and 1813 AD. Although details of only one member of this family are listed, the initials 'WG' occur on crotal bells that seem to span a considerable period of time and differ widely in quality. It is possible that earlier members of the family were involved in bell founding, or that the initials on the earlier and cruder bells are those of an unrelated maker. The William Gwynn listed was born in 1749 and died in 1813.
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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