Crotal bells, also called Rumbler bells, were used from the early medieval period onwards, the earliest being found in England dating to the beginning of the 13th century. Their uses ranged from adorning clothing, as signalling tools, and as attachments to livestock. One common usage of the bell was as a fixing to the harness of a horse, or frame of a horse-drawn wagon, in order to alert passers-by or fellow travellers of one’s presence. Made in a variety of sizes and metals, including tin, copper-alloy, iron and bronze, the bells contained a small clapper pellet, made from metal or stone, which would create a sound when moved. These particular bells are a fine example of the later manufacturing ingenuity in around the 1400s of the one-piece cast, a production technique which has sustained for over 400 years. A variety of decorative designs, including foliage, sunburst, or fish-scale patterns are evident, as well as often including the founder’s mark or initials to the lower-hemisphere. Such displays of ornamentation hint at the desire to display the status and wealth of the owner, as well as the artistic skill of the maker.
The initials R.W, are a clear indication of the bells’ maker, Robert Wells. Working in the Aldbourne (Wiltshire) foundry, first founded in the 17th century by the Corr family, it became well-known for its prolific production of bells. Robert Wells and his two sons became recognised as one of the most skilful artisans of crotal bells in the country.
