Antique Bronze Elephant Bell | Karen Hill Tribe, Southeast Asian | Late 19th–Early 20th Century

Details

Description

Maker | Unknown
Origin | Southeast Asia, likely Myanmar (Burma) or Northern Thailand, circa late 19th to early 20th century
… Read more Maker | Unknown
Origin | Southeast Asia, likely Myanmar (Burma) or Northern Thailand, circa late 19th to early 20th century
Marks | Possible markings present inside bell near the crown (see final listing photo)
Condition | Good antique condition with age-appropriate wear to the bronze bell, wood frame, leather, and rope elements

Large antique Southeast Asian bronze elephant bell mounted in a carved bentwood frame with floral detailing along the base. Bells of this type were traditionally worn on working elephants in regions of present-day Myanmar and Northern Thailand, where their deep, resonant tone allowed handlers to track animals moving through dense forest terrain.

The bell itself is cast in heavy bronze with a flared rim and a delicate molded rope-pattern band near the base. At the crown, a thin plate with decorative concentric circles reinforces the suspension opening through which the clapper rope passes. Inside hangs a substantial wrapped rod clapper designed to swing freely as the animal moved.

The combination of aged bronze, carved wood, and worn leather gives the piece a strong sculptural presence and makes it particularly appealing in interiors that mix natural materials, global artifacts, and collected decorative objects.

There appear to be markings of some kind inside the bell near the crown area, though they are not fully legible; please reference the final photo in the listing for a close view.

The bronze bell retains an aged patina with scattered surface scratches and typical variations from hand casting and age-related use. The decorative rope-pattern band and crown details remain clearly visible.

The carved bentwood frame shows age-related splitting, scattered insect holes, and general surface wear. Leather suspension padding and rope elements show wear but remain intact. The wrapped rod clapper remains present inside the bell.

Acquired from a Chicago estate.

Approximate overall dimensions:
Length: ~14.75 inches
Width: ~5.5 inches
Height: ~19.25 inches

Approximate dimensions of bell only:
Bell height: ~14.5 inches
Bell width: ~10 inches
Bell depth: ~6.5 inches See less