Ritual Bell, Southeast Asia, Laos – Burma. 19th Century Or Earlier.

A monastery bell with a flared body, resting on a wide circular rim, adorned with two slightly projecting lateral protrusions and an incised concentric design highlighting the base and upper bulge. The dome is surmounted by a carved ring, marked by pronounced wear indicating prolonged use. Inside, the wrought-iron clapper is suspended by a later-added ring. The bell produces a clear, deep sound with a sustained resonance, characteristic of liturgical bells from Southeast Asia. Brass, wrought iron, old patinas and signs of use, see photos. Southeast Asia, Laos – Burma. 19th century or earlier. Dimensions: 10.5 × 7.6 cm. Provenance: former collection in the south of France, assembled in the 1980s–1990s, following an inheritance. "A bell used during Buddhist ceremonies to punctuate services, mark prayer times, or accompany processions. In monasteries in Laos and Myanmar, this type of instrument, sometimes referred to locally as a votive bell or devotional bell, contributes to the creation of a sacred soundscape, intended to purify the atmosphere and promote spiritual concentration. The wear marks visible on the bail indicate repeated handling, directly linked to the daily practice of worship and the transmission of rituals." * Shipping costs upon request