A wonderful assortment of bells from around the world identified and shown in over 590 color photographs includes bells of many sizes, shapes, styles, colors, and textures, from school bells, cowbells, and bicycle bells to souvenir bells, commemoratives, and figurines. Basic bell types include open mouth bells, crotals, gongs, mechanical bells, and chimes. Bells for every taste and inclination!

Features over 750 bells from 29 countries, including cut glass bells, blown and pressed glass bells, engraved bells, and the highly desirable glass wedding bells. Companies represented include Dorflinger, Hawkes, Pairpoint, Seneca, Sinclaire, Fenton, Fostoria, Val St. Lambert, Goebel, Moser, Hofbauer, Wedgwood and many more. Captions provide bell type, country of origin, maker and date (if known), size, pattern or decoration, and current value. A splendid addition to the libraries of bell collectors, glass enthusiasts, and all who appreciate beautiful artistry.

Bells have played a prominent role in our society since the earliest of civilizations, yet few realize the scope of objects encompassed by this broad heading. While all bells share certain qualities--like the ability to produce sound--they vary amazingly in terms of size, shape, style, and material. A flat round Chinese gong is as much a bell as the graceful figurine hiding a swinging clapper beneath her skirt or a strap of round metal "sleigh bells" from the nineteenth century. Featuring over 620 beautiful color photos, this absorbing and entertaining book showcases the wonderful diversity of collectible bells, from animal bells, call bells, and rattles to commemoratives, figurals, miniatures, and holiday bells. Here you will find bells made of different materials, bells with more than one purpose, bells with common motifs, and much more. Both antique and modern, well-known to unique, one of these bells is sure to grab your fancy! Values, an index, and a bibliography are all included.

World travelers can find glass bells in many countries, making them fun to search for and recall their adventures. Over 400 bells are shown in hundreds of color photographs to whet the interest of newcomers to the field. Seasoned bell collectors will also enjoy the carefully researched history, identification, and text about glass manufacturers and regional characteristics. Dating bells will be easier with this guide. The book will be handled often to compare details and identify glass patterns.

Describes a variety of bells made of porcelain, metal and glass.