St Peter’s Basilica Table Bell, Valadier Campanone Miniature with Apostle Relief, 18 cm

A substantial cast-metal table bell with a bronze-toned patina and finely detailed relief decoration. A procession of robed figures runs around the body beneath hanging lamps, interspersed with heraldic shields and framed by scrollwork around the flared rim.

Attribution and provenance

The bell appears to be a miniature of Il Campanone, the Great Bell of St Peter’s Basilica in Rome, after the design by Luigi Valadier. A related Italian miniature dating to around 1880 is held by Museums Victoria. The relief on this example follows the same design, with figures representing the Apostles beneath hanging lamps. The maker, exact date and metal alloy of this particular bell are unconfirmed.

Condition

The bell has an uneven patina, surface marks and wear to the raised decoration. The small cross at the top of the finial is missing, leaving the rounded knop in place. The internal clapper is attached and the bell gives a clear ring when sounded. Please see the close-up photographs for the detail at the top.

Measurements

* Height approximately 18 cm
* Base diameter approximately 10 cm
* Weight approximately 1,224 g

The relief continues all the way around, with different figures and shields coming into view as you turn the bell. It’s a substantial display piece with a distinctive connection to the decorative metalwork of St Peter’s Basilica.