Insect Bell Pendant

Ring, ring! What do these four objects have in common? They are all bells! The turtle with ruby eyes (1966.473) and small gold insect (2015.12) were likely inspired by imaginary creatures. Fabergé (say: fab-er-zhay) probably modeled the turtle after small Japanese figurines called netsuke (say: nets-kay). The insect with 14 legs may combine features of marine animals and bugs. The wooden figure (1975.190) was used in healing rituals. Notice the patterns on the body of the bell. Similar shapes are found on other Kongo-style carvings and textiles. The bronze bell (1998.77.2) looks like a tall helmet topped by a pair of horns. It is decorated with a diamond that probably symbolized a southern Chinese tribe. Look closely at each bell’s shape and material. How might those details affect the sound it makes?