Bell (Duo)
Eastern Zhou dynasty, Warring States period (480–221 BCE), 4th century BCE
Medium
Bronze inlaid with gold
Dimensions
H.: 8.2 cm (3 1/4 in.)
Classification
bronze
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
144967
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
This small bell was designed with a clapper of bronze or bone (now lost) that was suspended from the short, hollow shank. It may have been used as a handbell to convey signals in military maneuvers. Much of its finely cast decoration—intertwined snakes and densely textured curls—is now camouflaged by surface corrosion. Traces of delicate gold-wire scrollwork are still visible near the rim. A diamond-like pattern with curvilinear motifs decorates the interior.
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...