China, Eastern Zhou dynasty (770–256 BCE) / early 400s BCE
Bell (Bo Zhong)
The Cleveland Museum of Art catalogs Bell (Bo Zhong) as metalwork (China, Eastern Zhou dynasty (770–256 BCE) · early 400s BCE).
The bell could produce two notes depending on where it is struck.
A CLOSER LOOK
The museum identifies this metalwork as bronze.
The museum's collection notes: Music in the Eastern Zhou dynasty not only served ritual purposes but also provided entertainment in feudal courts. The elliptical cross-section of the Chinese bronze bell is unique; it could produce two notes depending on where the bell is struck, either at the rim or near the center. The bell is suspended when played and often belongs to a graduated set arranged according to pitch and size. This bell displays elaborate ornamentation and exquisite workmanship. A twin-bodied serpent intertwined with two tigers forms the suspension loop at the top. Coiled serpents form the knobs on the body. The lower part bears an animal mask, its horns inter
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The Cleveland Museum of ArtBell (Bo Zhong)Original explanation based on the sources above. Images carry their own reuse terms.