Decorative bell - Netherlands - Altaargong - 38 cm

Yellow-brass altar gong from the period 1900-1910. This neogothic standing altar gong has a funnel-shaped base with three lion's paw feet. The dome-shaped bell sits on a round pillar. At the top a cast three-dimensional cross in the form of a Latin cross.

The altar gong is a gong on a pedestal that is to be struck with a wooden hammer. The hammerhead is usually made of a softer material to produce a damped sound. The term gong should not be taken too literally. The sound produced by the altar gong resembles a church bell more than a typical gong. The altar gong for liturgical use can vary from one to three gongs. Usually tuned to form a chord. The altar gong can be used in the Catholic Mass to announce the sacred actions during the Eucharist. Usually at the same moments as when the altar bell or carillon is used. In some churches both the altar gong and the altar bell are used.

Dimensions: 38 x 18 cm.
Weight: 4488 grams
Condition: reasonable, small dents in the base and on the gong itself. The interior has some rusting.
Dating: 1900-1915