Victorian Brass & Bronze Reception / Counter 'Clapper' Bell with a Hinged & Side Sprung 'Clapper'

Genuine Victorian brass and bronze reception / counter 'clapper' bell, with lovely verdigris aged patina. It has a hinged, side sprung 'clapper', which when activated, produces a wonderfully sharp and sustainable audible 'ting'. Quality old bells such as this one, were hand-made from a 2-metal construction. The bells domed head is made of cold cast bronze, whilst its other components are made of brass, making a hugely beneficial difference to the sound clarity it produces. Reception / counter bells of this type were often found in highbrow hotels, retail outlets, and higher middle class households, used as they were, to summon staff or signal a service requirement. Today, if set on an office desk, study table, or domestic bar, the bell would add a delightful note of ceremony, charm, and nostalgia.