Holt Antiques at Walsingham Mill
Rare, Generously-Sized, 12th Century Anglo-Norman Antique Copper-Brazed Iron Monastic Bell, circa 1100-1200
Rare, Generously-Sized, 12th Century Anglo-Norman Antique Copper-Brazed Iron Monastic Bell, circa 1100-1200
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A large, rare and important copper-brazed iron bell of the Anglo-Norman period, circa 12th century. This is one of the earliest pieces we have had the privilege of sourcing.
Of characteristic form with slightly rounded, flared body, the bell is constructed from forged iron with copper brazing — a technique associated with early medieval monastic workshops in Ireland, Scotland and Northumbria. Externally struck type, the surface dipped in molten copper, giving the bell its distinctive textured, iridescent patina of deep iron-black and bronze-green tones, the whole with centuries of rich oxidisation throughout.
This example has now been suspended from an iron pivot bar within a later oak frame constructed from period timbers, of mortise-and-tenon construction with a solid rectangular base, the aged oak displaying pronounced grain and surface checking entirely consistent with extreme age.
Monks used bells of this type to call the faithful to prayer, mark the canonical hours, and accompany religious processions. After the 12th century, monastic bells of this scale were increasingly cast in bronze; surviving iron examples of this period are of considerable rarity. A piece of exceptional historical significance for the collector of early medieval ecclesiastical metalwork.
Provenance: Anglo-Norman. 12th Century.
Material: Iron bell brazed in copper with an oak frame.
Condition: The bell retains its original copper-brazed surface with deep, stable patina. Oak frame with honest age and wear throughout. Structurally sound.
Dimensions: Please enquire.
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4. FSB - Federation of Small Business.
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