Etched Brass Sleigh Bell

This item is a large, spherical sleigh bell, likely measuring between 3 to 4 inches in diameter. It is constructed from cast brass or a similar heavy copper-alloy metal. The surface features an ornate, hand-chased or etched floral and foliate design. The dominant motif is a large five-petaled flower radiating from the top, surrounded by serrated leaves and cross-hatched textured backgrounds that create a rich, tactile relief. A decorative band encircles the middle of the bell, featuring smaller repeating floral patterns. The metal shows a significant aged patina with darkening in the recessed areas, which highlights the detail of the etching; however, there are signs of surface wear and minor scuffing consistent with age and use. The construction appears to be a two-piece design joined at the center. Such bells were commonly produced in the late 19th to early 20th century for horse-drawn sleigh harnesses. The craftsmanship indicates a higher level of detail than common utility bells, suggesting it may have been part of a prestige set. No specific maker's marks are visible in the provided view.

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