Bell
Maker
Unknown
Datec. 1830
Mediumsilver and ivory
Dimensions4 3/8 × 2 3/8 inches (11.1 × 6 cm)
Credit LineBequest of Margaret Gray Thomas.
Object numberOT1951.180
On View
Not on viewCollections
Terms
2023
CopyrightThe images and text contained on this page are owned by Telfair Museums or used by the Museum with permission from the owners. Unauthorized reproduction, transmission or display of these materials is prohibited with the exception of items deemed “fair use” as defined by U.S. and international copyright laws.Label TextThe surface of this dinner bell is almost entirely embellished with chased S-scrolls, lattice, and other decorations. It also has an ivory handle. It descended in the family of George Welshman Owens (1786-1856), the landholder and enslaver who purchased the home now known as the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters in 1830. The bell was likely a summoning device, used by Owens family members to call enslaved laborers. However, since the house also had a system of pulls and bells used to summon enslaved laborers working in the basement to the upper floors, this may have been more of an accessory for performance, used to impress other affluent white guests during dinners or social calls.