[Bell Historians] Bell-historians Digest, Vol 41 bell moulding wires

[c.j.pickford at talk21.com]

In answer to Matthew and Kye, I willingly concede there are similarities between Phil’s bell and the small Warner bells (Kye’s image … 121247). On the Warner bell there is a parting line below the shoulder, and the lower mouldings are of “unobtrusive profile” – standard hallmarks of bells of this type, but standard across a number of makers, some of whom are unknown.

 

I’m still doubtful Phil’s bell can be assigned to Warners with any degree of certainty – even on the basis of these similarities. Warners put their name on almost everything they made – even very small sandcast bells. Yes, it’s unarguable that others without their name may also be by them – but I would argue that the fact Warners “usually” signed should urge caution about rushing to assign bells that aren’t. 

 

On a broader point, we’re all – and I include myself – too eager to always identify a founder. There’s nothing wrong with saying “unknown” – and, indeed, it would be more honest to do so more often. The evidence should really be very strong before we go as far as saying “possibly”, stronger still before saying “probably” and concrete before we say “BY”. 

 

Chris Pickford

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