Antique Bronze Temple Puja Handbell from Nepal

This 19th Century bronze hand-bell originally belonged to a Buddhist or Hindu temple priest and was rung on ritual, puja, and ceremonial occasions in Nepal.  The rung note is a sweet and almost perfect pitch seventh octave Eb7 (2495Hz).

The top features a praying mythical Garuda bird with outstretched wings, flanked by two snakes (nagas) with a huge protective cobra forming a canopy above.  Unusually, a small hole has been drilled in the top of the bell to hold an incense stick.

This temple handbell was cast in a bronze alloy by the lost wax method and is therefore a unique one-off item.  It is in excellent condition and has a wonderful aged patina.  It would make a very nice original gift!