Sterling Silver Desk Bell 19th Century

Name: Antique Sterling Silver Reception Counter Desk Bell
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1052709
Price: 235 GBP
Availability: InStock

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Cataloguer’s Note

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing

ObjectDesk Accessories
Period19th century
StyleVictorian
MaterialSterling Silver, Brass
ColourSilver
MotifsRepousse scrollwork, Plunger top, Dome bell, Assay hallmarks
SizeH 7.1 cm (3 in) x W 8 cm (3 in) x D 8 cm (3 in)

This Victorian sterling silver desk accessory functions as a reception counter bell. The piece displays a polished silver dome bell positioned over a heavily decorated chased repousse scrollwork base, accented with British assay hallmarks. A turned brass plunger top surmounts the dome, exhibiting minor wear to the finish. The solid silver lower body contrasts with the silver-plated top section and brass hardware components. Measuring 7.1 cm high, 8 cm wide, and 8 cm deep, the bell sits compactly on any flat surface. Today, this decorative item suits a traditional gentleman's library or office desk, serving as both a functional call bell and an appealing historical desk accessory. It integrates effortlessly into a study workspace or home office alongside classic writing implements and vintage stationery.

FAQs

A mechanical desk bell, or call bell, was traditionally used on hotel counters, reception desks, and private study tables during the 19th and early 20th centuries to summon assistance or staff with a clear auditory signal.

Antique counter bells generally feature a solid sterling silver or silver-plated dome mounted over an internal iron or brass striker mechanism, often resting on a decorated silver or weighted base.

Authentic sterling silver desk bells display official assay office hallmarks stamped into the silver body or lower rim, indicating the purity mark, makers mark, date letter, and town mark.

A sterling silver desk bell functions as a tactile accent piece when styled on an executive desk, an entryway console table, or a stack of hardcover books within a library setting.

Clean the silver exterior gently with a soft microfibre cloth and specialised silver polish, taking care to prevent liquid polish from entering the internal striker mechanism.

Rawlings Antiques

Antique Sterling Silver Reception Counter Desk Bell

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