Dan bronze bracelet with three sounding bells, Côte d’Ivoire / Liberia HIGHLIGHTS • Fine Dan bronze bracelet • Open-cuff form with three integral bells • All three bells intact and still sounding • Beautiful old patina • Strong sculptural and rhythmic design • Remarkable overall integrity • No stand DETAILS Origin: Dan people, Côte d’Ivoire / Liberia Material: Bronze Dimensions: 10 × 8 × 2 cm Period: Probably first half of the 20th century or earlier Condition: Very good overall condition, remarkable integrity Stand: None DESCRIPTION INTRODUCTION A fine Dan bronze bracelet distinguished by its elegant open-cuff form and its three integral sounding bells. Compact yet visually striking, the piece combines ornament, movement and sound in a particularly successful design. FORM AND STRUCTURE The bracelet is composed of a curved circular body with slightly flaring terminals, to which three large hollow bell elements are attached. Their regular placement creates a balanced and highly rhythmic composition, giving the object an immediately recognisable sculptural presence. SOUND AND FUNCTION Particularly noteworthy is the fact that the three bells remain intact, with their inner pellets still present, so that the bracelet still produces sound when moved. This preserved acoustic quality adds greatly to the object's interest, as it evokes not only adornment but also motion and performative presence. SURFACE AND PATINA The surface shows a beautiful old patina, with dark brown tones, lighter wear on the projecting areas and subtle oxidation in places. These variations enhance the relief of the bells and the curved body, reinforcing the impression of age and long use. CONDITION Very good overall condition. Three bells intact, with inner pellets still present and sounding. Remarkable overall integrity. Minor surface wear and small marks consistent with age and use. No stand.