Crotal bells are small rattling bells with a pellet inside that appeared across the globe, from Europe where they were used in horse harnesses, folk music and rituals, to the Far East, including Japan where they are called suzu (鈴) and used in Shinto rituals and traditional dance. In China and India, crotal bells adorned clothing and animals for protection, while in Africa and the Americas, they played spiritual and ceremonial roles. Their simple design made them a universal tool for music, ritual, and daily life.
Each bell is cast from bell bronze, which is unique alloy that contains more tin than conventional bronzes. While it is more brittle, it also features a lower melting point and exceptionally low damping. The result is enduring resonance that lingers far longer than in other metals, making it ideal for bells and instruments where sound quality is essential.
I avoid mass-produced bronzes, which often include unwanted elements like lead. Instead, I work exclusively with pure copper and tin, ensuring both the integrity of the material and the authenticity of the craft. Every step, from mixing the alloy to shaping the final piece, is done by hand using the traditional sand casting technique. All my work is proudly crafted in Slovenia, Europe.