We believe that this engraved bell represents a lotus bud and a lotus seedpod. The Lotus symbolizes Continuous Harmony and its seedpods with their many seeds represent Fertility. Such bells were often presented as wedding gifts and came in the shape of a bell because their sound was supposed to chase away evil spirits. This one has recently been embellished with a artistically knotted cord as well as an ivory bead and an old nut carving. The bell which is not marked and dates from the late Qing (1644 – 1912) to the early Republic period. Width 3.5 cm. Height 3.2 cm. Depth 2.2 cm.