Antique Indian Engraved Brass Hand Gong with Wooden Striker C.1900

A finely decorated Indian brass hand gong, dating to around the turn of the 20th century and accompanied by its turned wooden striker.

The circular brass gong has a pronounced raised central boss and is extensively hand engraved with dense scrolling floral and foliate decoration arranged within concentric borders. Small traces of red pigment or lacquer survive within selected floral details, adding subtle colour to the engraved ornament.

The reverse displays clear concentric turning marks, indicating a lathe-turned brass body, subsequently finished and engraved by hand. This combination of turned construction and hand-cut decoration is characteristic of traditional Indian decorative brasswork of the late 19th and early 20th century.

Despite its compact size, the gong produces a surprisingly clear and sustained metallic tone when struck with the accompanying padded beater. Analysis of the recording indicates a principal resonance around 710–725 Hz, with stronger upper overtones around 2.1 kHz and above, giving it a bright, ringing acoustic character consistent with a hard copper-alloy such as brass.

* Please request video of the lovely sound *

The accompanying striker is formed from dark turned hardwood with a rounded striking head and old black textile padding. The timber shows attractive age-related wear to the finish, while the textile has natural fraying and wear consistent with use.

Small gongs of this type were used as domestic signal or attention gongs, and could also have served in dining or ceremonial settings, although its exact original function cannot now be confirmed.

Origin: India

Period: Late 19th / early 20th century

Date: c.1890–1910

Listing year: 1900

Material: Engraved brass and turned hardwood

Decoration: Floral and foliate engraving with traces of red pigment/lacquer

Type: Small hand gong / domestic signal gong

Gong dimensions: approx. 10.5 cm diameter × 4.5 cm high

Gong weight: approx. 143 g

Striker dimensions: approx. 22cm

Striker weight: approx. 37 g

Condition: Good antique condition with age-related wear, surface rubbing, scratches, oxidation and patination consistent with use. Small traces of red decorative pigment remain within the engraved floral work. The striker shows wear to the wooden finish and fraying to the old textile padding. The gong remains functional and produces a clear, sustained ringing tone.

About CKB LTD.

CKB LTD. was formed in 2010 and operates as an independent dealer, with a focus on carefully selected works offered through private sale and online platforms.

The company emphasizes informed attribution, clear descriptions, and responsible market practice. Objects are evaluated through visual examination, comparative research, and reference to established art-historical frameworks, with attention to condition, authenticity, and context.

CKB LTD. works with private collectors, dealers, and international buyers, and conducts transactions in accordance with standard international art market conventions. Each item is offered as a collectible work of art, with transparency regarding condition and attribution, and with respect for the nature of historical objects.

Condition, Attribution & Authenticity Notice

This work is offered as an antique object based on visual examination and comparative stylistic analysis. All statements regarding age, origin, attribution, and period represent informed scholarly opinion and are not guarantees of absolute fact.

Condition descriptions are based on external observation only. The interior, underside of the base, and any internal cavities or consecration materials have not been examined. No technical analysis (including XRF, thermoluminescence, or metallurgical testing) has been performed.

As is typical with antique bronzes, minor casting irregularities, surface wear, rubbing to high points, oxidation, and age-related imperfections are present and should be expected. No visible repairs or restorations are observed from the available views; however, the absence of hidden restorations cannot be guaranteed.

All items are sold as is, and prospective buyers are encouraged to examine the photographs carefully and request additional information prior to purchase. By bidding or purchasing, the buyer acknowledges acceptance of the item?s condition and the nature of antique works.

International Buyers ? Important Information

This item is an antique work of art over 100 years old and is sold as a collectible object. Buyers are responsible for any import duties, VAT, GST, customs fees, or local taxes imposed by their country.

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All shipments are professionally packed and fully insured. Title and risk pass to the buyer upon shipment.

This work is offered in accordance with standard international art market practices.