Type: Decorative Bell
Original/Licensed Reproduction: Original
Production Technique: Moulded, hand decorated
Style: Mid-Century Traditional
Date of Creation: Mid 20th Century
Features: Hollow, bell form, hand painted
Subject: Lady / Crinoline / Southern Belle
Region of Origin: FOREIGN (imported)
Material: Porcelain
Size: Approx. 9.5 cm tall
A charming vintage porcelain lady bell, standing approximately 9.5 cm tall, modelled in the form of a traditional crinoline or “Southern Belle” style figure dressed in soft blue tones.
The figure is hollow by design, with the skirt forming the body of the bell. The delicate hand-painted detailing to the dress, bonnet, and facial features reflects classic mid-century decorative tastes.
This piece was originally made as a decorative novelty bell.
The small hole at the back is part of the original design and was used to suspend the internal clapper, which would have allowed the bell to ring when shaken.
The clapper is no longer present, which is very common with surviving examples.
The base is marked “FOREIGN”, indicating post-war import production.
This marking was widely used on decorative ceramics imported into the UK and USA from Japan or continental Europe during the 1940s–1950s.
These pieces were mass-produced but hand decorated, making each example slightly individual.
Lady bells like this were often displayed on dressing tables or mantelpieces and were sometimes used as calling bells — a decorative way to summon attention before doorbells became universal.
Used and vintage.
No cracks or chips noted.
Clapper missing (reflected in price).
Light age-related wear and minor surface marks consistent with long-term storage.
Carefully packed using protective materials.
Sent fully tracked and insured for peace of mind.
🌹 From Lillys RoseRed – Where the Past is Always Present 🌹
Vintage porcelain lady bell, southern belle bell, crinoline lady bell, porcelain bell figurine, mid century decorative bell, vintage foreign porcelain