Set of 6, 19th Century Antique Brass & Bronze Crotal Sleigh Bells - Description:

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A captivating collection of six 19th-century antique cast bronze and brass crotal bells (traditionally known as sleigh or horse harness … Read more A captivating collection of six 19th-century antique cast bronze and brass crotal bells (traditionally known as sleigh or horse harness bells). This curated assembly showcases an exceptional range of time-earned, moody verdigris and deep chocolate bronze patinas that only centuries of natural oxidation can produce.
Significantly, the prominent large bell, measuring 1.75”, diameter in this set features a clear, authentic foundry mark reading "E T C" stamped into its face, identifying it as a historical piece from the East Hampton Bell Company of Connecticut. Operating during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this foundry was a major player in East Hampton's legendary history as America’s "Belltown."
This featured bell showcases crisp, deeply molded geometric "petal" accents along its lower half—a classic hallmark of early American craftsmanship. The remaining five smaller, smooth-surfaced rumbler bells showcase beautiful industrial textures. Remarkably, several of the smaller bells still retain fragments of their original, thick leather harness straps pinched tightly beneath their integrated shanks, anchoring their historical authenticity.
Each bell houses its original internal rolling metal ball or pellet, giving them a heavy, substantial hand-feel and producing a beautifully clear, resonant chime when handled. Whether styled together as "found objects" draped in a rustic stone bowl, arranged elegantly on stacks of linen books, or integrated into a festive holiday mantel vignette, this signed ensemble serves as a rich, tactile layer of primitive American history for high-end interiors. See less