Signalling Horn with Bellows 1850 - 1885

Here we see a signalling horn with bellows made of wood and brass by J. Stone & Co. The object presents as an interesting combination of curvilinear and linear shapes, where the wood's warm tones contrast with the metallic sheen of the brass horn. The bellows consist of a series of accordion-like folds, creating a dynamic, compressed form, which is interrupted by two circular holes. The linear horn extending from the bellows acts as a focal point, directing the eye along its cylindrical form. The contrast between the bellows and the horn might challenge the traditional ideas of sound production. The bellows, typically associated with creating a draft for fire, here become the instrument for a signal, suggesting a kind of transmutation. This repurposing destabilizes the object’s original function, hinting at a broader cultural or technological shift. The composition thus serves as a semiotic code, revealing how objects can transcend their primary use. The linear extension of the horn against the concertina structure of the bellows underscores the interplay between form and function. This tension encapsulates a cultural dialogue about innovation, challenging us to reconsider how objects can be reinterpreted and redefined.