Hand bell of iron

This iron bell was found in Perthshire. It is evidence of the spread of Christianity, introduced from the western or Celtic tradition, into Perthshire between 700 and 900. Such bells were carried by missionaries, and many later were regarded as relics.

The bell is quadrangular in shape with a loop on top for holding it. It was made by hammering iron into large sheets and working it into shape. The decorated clapper is presumably a later addition.

After St Columba founded the monastery of Iona in 563, the close links with the Irish tradition of Christianity continued. Hand bells were important in this tradition, and when found in Pictish Scotland, reflect the influence of the west coast church.

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