Context (Production / use)
An online search for the name 'Challis', as inscribed on the suspension loop, in conjunction with 'bell' returned results relating to early bicycle bells, though of the more modern-looking variety and certainly not crotal bells. As such, it is not possible to say whether this information relates to the same Challis as marked on this object. However, the internal springs either side of an enlarged hole in the bell's body, and the small chain links affixed to the 'pea', do suggest a more complex mechanical operation for this particular bell than other crotal bells in the Museum's collections. How exactly it worked, and the purpose for which it was employed, remain currently unknown.
Event Date
Author: David Kay

Context (Found together / assemblage)
This bell was found in a bag of similar bells (TEMP.00685-TEMP.00703) with a handwritten note reading 'NO PROV'.
Event Date
Author: David Kay

Description (Inscription)
On suspension loop: 'CHALLIS STOP 9E'
Event Date
Author: David Kay

Context (Found together / assemblage)
Nineteen apparently unaccessioned crotal bells (TEMP.00685-TEMP.00703) were found together in the museum store. Some or all of them may have been accessioned and become disassociated with their museum number, or they may never have been formally accessioned into the museum's collection.
Event Date 12/11/2018
Author: David Kay

Description (Physical description)
Crotal bell with intact suspension loop. Two holes in the lower half connected with an elongated sound slot. Upper has two holes, one considerably larger than the other with a raised lip and two small springs mounted internally. The bell is undecorated apart from on the suspension loop, on each side of which is inscribed 'CHALLIS STOP 9E'. The inner cavity contains a cast iron 'pea' to which are attached two small chain links. The suspension loop has a copper alloy split pin inserted through it.
Event Date 12/11/2018
Author: David Kay

Context (Related Documents)
See 'Report on Collections Research and Cataloguing Project on Post Medieval 'To Be Disposed Of' Material' by David Kay in the archive (Doc.474) for background information.
Event Date 2019
Author: Esther Laver