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Very attractive graduated set of 11 heavy cast-brass sleigh bells, individually numbered by size and decorated with the traditional incised petal/flower pattern.
The bells are arranged in graduated sequence from the buckle end:
No. 12 – 11 – 11 – 10 – 10 – 8 – 8 – 8 – 7 – 7 – 6
These are substantial cast brass bells rather than lightweight stamped modern jingle bells. Each bell contains a magnetic iron/steel clapper with an irregular, roughly formed surface rather than a modern polished bearing-type ball.
The bells were acquired together as a set in Northeast Ohio. When found, they had previously been transferred to a non-original belt using assorted improvised wire fasteners. I carefully reconstructed the strap using a new heavy leather belt and traditional-style brass bell pins while preserving the graduated order in which the bells were found.
The bells themselves are not reproductions added during the restoration. Only the leather strap and mounting hardware are replacements.
Features include:
- 11 graduated cast-brass sleigh bells
- Individually numbered sizes #6 through #12
- Measurements:
Overall strap length: 46 in.
Leather width: 1 5/8 in.
Largest bell: approx. 2 5/8 in. diameter
Smallest bell: approx. 1 3/4 in. diameter
Total weight: 3 lb.
- Traditional engraved/incised petal pattern
- Heavy magnetic iron/steel clappers
- Excellent ringing sound with different tones across the graduated sizes
- Attractive naturally aged brass surfaces
- Remounted on heavy leather with brass bell pins
- Traditional buckle construction
- Estate-found in the Cleveland / Northeast Ohio area
The exact manufacturer and date of manufacture have not been positively identified. Based on construction and appearance, I believe these are vintage American-style harness/sleigh bells, but I am intentionally leaving the maker and exact age unattributed.
This is an impressive display piece and also a fully functional graduated sleigh-bell strap with a rich range of tones.
Please review the detailed photographs for condition, construction, numbering and finish.
