Handbell Appraisal

Brass Handbell with Wooden Handle

This item is a desktop handbell, characterized by its traditional design and combination of materials. It features a turned wooden handle, likely fruitwood or a similar hardwood, exhibiting a warm reddish-brown hue with visible wood grain. The handle shows significant wear, including areas where the finish has completely worn off, revealing lighter wood beneath, along with scuffs and minor indentations, suggesting frequent handling and age. The top of the handle is rounded with a decorative turned collar just below it, leading to a gracefully tapering shaft that widens slightly before meeting the bell. The bell itself is made of brass, exhibiting a rich, aged patina with areas of darker oxidation and some lighter, polished sections, indicating past cleaning or handling. The surface of the bell shows numerous small scratches and scuffs consistent with typical use. It has a classic flared shape, with a well-defined rim at the bottom. A discernible raised ring or band encircles the bell's body approximately one-third of the way down from the top, adding a decorative accent. The connection point between the wooden handle and the brass bell appears to be a robust, possibly threaded, attachment, though not explicitly visible. The overall craftsmanship suggests a functional piece, likely from the mid-20th century or earlier, designed for practical use, such as a call bell for a household, school, or business. Its condition points to a well-used but structurally sound object with an appealing antique aesthetic.