Triple bell 1900 - 1950

This small triple bell was made by the Fon people. It's a curious object, like an idea that’s been distilled down to its most elemental form. The rusty, earthy tones speak of time and process, a kind of slow cooking that transforms raw material into something imbued with history. It’s hard not to imagine the hands that shaped each bell, the rough-hewn marks telling a story of labor and intention. Look closely and you will notice the simple loop at the top and how the bells flare out, each with a slightly different personality. The metal has a beautiful, uneven texture, as if it has been aged by weather and time. There is something deeply satisfying about the simplicity and directness of its making. I find myself thinking about Ruth Asawa, another artist who found beauty and elegance through simple materials. Ultimately, art is about communication, and this small bell speaks volumes, even without a sound.