Chinese Cast Bronze Bianzhong Chime Bell Set

Vintage Chinese Cast Bronze Bianzhong Chime Bell Set (6 Bells) w/ Mallet – Marquis Yi of Zeng Replica – Resonant Musical Tone Archaistic Chinese Cast Bronze Bianzhong Chime Bell Set with Striking Mallet Add a striking piece of ancient Chinese musical history to your desk, studio, or collection with this finely crafted miniature bianzhong chime bell set. Modeled after the world-famous 5th-century BCE royal chime bells of Marquis Yi of Zeng, this substantial, playable reproduction combines authentic cast-bronze acoustics with traditional Chu-style lacquered woodwork. Sound & Musicality Unlike lightweight decorative souvenirs, the six graduated, clapperless yongzhong bells are made of solid cast bronze with an antiqued dark patina. When struck with the accompanying T-shaped wooden mallet, each bell produces a clear, sustained, and resonant musical chime across a graduated pitch range. Traditional Chinese bianzhong bells are prized for their distinctive almond-shaped cross-section, which was engineered in antiquity to prevent lingering dissonance and allow crisp melodic playing during court ceremonies. Historical & Artistic Design • The Bells: Features six angled yongzhong-style bronze bells adorned with traditional rows of raised bosses (mei) and intricate archaic relief bands around the top. • Chu Lacquerwork & Musician Markers: Suspended from a black-lacquered wooden crossbar painted with authentic Warring States Chu-style motifs—including stylized intertwined dragon scrollwork (kui dragons) in earthy red. Above each bell are decorative lattice blocks accented with gold and red dots; on the original 5th-century BCE instrument, these painted markers served both as ornate dividers and as practical visual guides to help court musicians quickly locate each pitch during performances. • Warrior Supports: The crossbar is held aloft by twin cast-bronze warrior figurines wearing swords and standing atop ornate circular pedestals, symbolizing strength and royal authority. • Complete Set: Rests on a stepped, glossy black rectangular wooden base and includes the original matching T-shaped wooden striking mallet. Specifications & Condition • Materials: Solid cast bronze bells & figurines; lacquered wood frame, base, and mallet • Dimensions: 12 cm H × 30 cm W (approx. 4.7" H × 11.8" W) • Weight: 731 g (approx. 1 lb 9.8 oz) – substantial, heavy feel • Condition: Very good vintage condition. All six bells hang securely on their original metal hooks, the lacquer finish and painted motifs remain vibrant with minor age-appropriate wear, and the mallet is intact. (See photos for close-up details Nearest intersection Yonge Street and Stelees Avenue