Cast Bronze or Brass Ship/Altar Bell with 1830 Date Marking (Non-Gold Artifact)
Bell (Religious, Maritime, or Commemorative artifact) · Not applicable. The item exhibits a greenish-brown verdigris patina characteristic of oxidized copper, not a gold alloy.
Purity: None. The item is not made of gold. It is a copper-based alloy such as bronze or brass. There are no gold purity stamps or hallmarks present.
Type
Bell (Religious, Maritime, or Commemorative artifact)
Purity
None. The item is not made of gold. It is a copper-based alloy such as bronze or brass. There are no gold purity stamps or hallmarks present.
Gold Type
Not applicable. The item exhibits a greenish-brown verdigris patina characteristic of oxidized copper, not a gold alloy.
Weight
Estimated 200g to 500g based on the visible thickness of the cast metal and proportions relative to the white rope.
Description
A traditional flared bell cast from a copper alloy. It features a central Christian cross in relief, flanked by two lines of text and a date inscription. The upper crown consists of sturdy loops for suspension. The surface is heavily weathered with a rich artificial or environmental patina.
Key Features
Raised relief date '1830', Latin inscription, triple-loop crown, and distinct green oxidation typical of bronze artifacts.
Color & Finish
Deep olive green and dull brown patina with a matte, textured surface. There are heavy oxidation layers (verdigris) and surface pitting consistent with aged base metals exposed to moisture.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The item features raised relief lettering: "FECIT BENITVS A RECIEVS ANO D 1830" and a Christian cross symbol. These are casting marks, not precious metal hallmarks.
Dimensions Estimate
Height: approx. 4-5 inches; Base diameter: approx. 3.5 inches. Fits the profile of a small hand bell or signal bell.
Gemstones & Inlays
None present.
Clasp & Closure
None. The bell features a cast triple-loop suspension crown through which a white cotton rope is threaded.
Chain & Links
A simple white twisted cotton or nylon rope serves as a handle/pull, which is likely a modern replacement.
Craftsmanship Details
Sand-cast construction. The lettering is somewhat crude but legible, typical of small foundry work or reproductions intended to look antique. Minor casting seams are visible near the crown loop.
Authentication Indicators
Red Flag for Gold: The green verdigris (copper carbonate) is a definitive indicator that this is a base metal alloy like bronze or brass, as gold does not oxidize to green. The weight-to-volume ratio would also be significantly lower than gold.
Origin & Maker
Possibly Spanish or Latin American origin based on the Latin/Romance phrasing 'FECIT' (Made by) and 'AÑO' (Year). Maker 'Benitvs A Recievs' (Benitus a Recieus).
Era & Period
19th Century (1830) style, though likely a later reproduction or 'souvenir' piece given the font clarity and casting texture.
Age Estimate
Dated 1830, but the surface wear suggests it could be a 20th-century reproduction of a colonial-style ecclesiastical bell.
Cultural Significance
Represents religious or maritime communication tools of the 19th century. In a religious context, such bells were used to signal phases of the Mass or calls to prayer.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Heavy surface oxidation and pitting. The clapper is not visible. The rope is frayed but functional. No structural cracks are visible in the casting.
Value Estimate
Collectible/Decorative Value: $40 - $120. Metal Value: Minimal (scrap copper/brass prices approx. $2-$4 per lb). The value is entirely historical/aesthetic, not based on precious metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use gold polishing cloths. If the patina is desired, leave it as is. To stabilize, a light coating of Renaissance wax can be applied to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
Antique ship's bells, Spanish mission bells, brass desk bells, and bronze liturgical sanctus bells.
Interesting Facts
Bells of this style were frequently used on ships, in small chapels, or as mission bells. The term 'FECIT' is Latin for 'He made it,' a traditional signature for foundry masters.