Handbells Collection

The Female Saints at the Tomb and the Resurrection, detail of the Bell Ringer, 1330
XIR440628 The Female Saints at the Tomb and the Resurrection, detail of the Bell Ringer, 1330 (fresco) by Oliver, Juan (14th century); Museo de Navarra, Pamplona

Animal imitators, 14th century
Performers imitating animals in the 14th century: man with pipe and tabor dancing with a man in stag costume; man with dancing dog, man with stick receiving a scroll from a boy with a dogs head

Relics of Saxon Times (engraving)
973039 Relics of Saxon Times (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Relics of Saxon Times)

Mi-Sol-Si - French comedy / clown musical act involving bells
Mi-Sol-Si - French comedy/clown musical act involving bells. Date: circa 1920s

National Childrens Home (NCH), Harpenden - The London Choir
National Childrens Home (NCH), Harpenden. The Homes choir, still known as the London Choir - reflecting the Homes previous location in Bethnal Green

Handbell ringing
Five Swedish gentlemen in white tie ring an array of bells of different sizes. Date: C.1900

Roger Smith, Bell Ringer (engraving)
XJF438411 Roger Smith, Bell Ringer (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Roger Smith (dates unknown)

Christmas a serenade by hand-bell players 1889. Playing the Handbells in the nineteenth century

For sale as Licensed Images

Choose your image, Select your licence and Download the media

Discover the enchanting history of handbells, from the sacred to the playful. 🔔 In this captivating journey, explore the intricate detail of a 1330 bell ringer depicted in "The Female Saints at the Tomb and the Resurrection." Witness the artistry of animal imitators from the 14th century, who brought joy to audiences through their bell-ringing antics. Delve into the past as we uncover the relics of Saxon times, where handbells held a significant role in religious ceremonies. Join King David as he plays his handbells in a 14th-century manuscript, adding a melodic touch to the sacred texts. Laugh and be entertained by the Mi-Sol-Si French comedy/clown musical act, where handbells took center stage in their lively performances. Fast forward to the 19th century, where handbell ringing brought harmony to charitable institutions like the National Children's Home in Harpenden and Muller's New Orphan Houses in Bristol. Lastly, experience the magic of Christmas through the serene sounds of hand-bell players in this captivating 1889 illustration. Each ring of the bell carries a rich history, connecting us to the past and creating beautiful moments in the present.