A few Interesting Bells

Do you have an interesting bell?

The Great Ming Dynasty and The Boy with a Leaky Boot by Emil Huddy

“Great Ming Dynasty” 1988. This bell represents tbc Ming dynasty period in China, 1368-1644, and symbolized Longevity and Tranquility. The vertical inscription reads: “May all good and pleasant things prevail for 10,000 years.” A three-clawed, hornless and whiskered dragon is depicted as rising out of the ocean. The handle represents Kwan Yin, Goddess of mercy and protector of children. Kwan Yin is also known as the Flower Princess and symbolizes Hope and Happiness. The bell is approximately 12 inches high and weighs 4 pounds.  (from The Bell Tower January 2005)

“Boy with Leaky Boot” 1988. Helen Banks, a sculptor, developed the figure for this bell from an Italian 1885 casting. It is signed by her on the fig­urine and by Emil Huddy on the bell. The bell and figure are 7 inches high and weigh 1.5 pounds. The figure is based on the story of a Bavarian boy who, while crossing a small stream, developed a leaky boot. As he reached the other side, be held up the boot and watched the water streaming out. He was saddened because the old, faithful boot probably could not be repaired and was hopeful that he might receive a new pair of boots.   (from The Bell Tower January 2005)

Pinocchio with a Gold Key riding Turtle

This bell represents the Russian fairy tale “The Golden Key” or “The Adventures of Buratino”.  Alexei Tolstoy adapted this tale from the Italian fairy tale of Pinocchio.  Buratino, a wooden puppet, sets out to find a golden key that will free his fellow puppets.  He meets Turtle Torilly who gives him a ride on his adventures and gives him the key.  Made in two pieces, this is a modern bell made by IronWorks and is 1 ¼” high.  The Turtle’s shell is a piece of amber.