Smaller sized altar bells such as these are often called 'puja' bells. In Hinduism they are used during the (daily) puja rituals, that can take place both as community ceremonies in temples as in smaller family or individual settings at the home altar. They are intimate moments of personal worship and connection to the gods and spirits.
The bell is rang to start and end the ritual, or even continuously during the ritual. Traditionally they are held in the left hand, while the right hand places the offerings on the altar.
Of course this beautiful old bell can be used for all kinds of different personal (daily) rituals and ceremonies. The use of bells has a very old tradition in all kinds of (spiritual) traditions, also in traditional shamanism. The sound and vibrations of the bell are for example used to mark the beginning and end of a ritual by 'stirring up' old, stuck energies, drive out the heavy spirits and call in the helpful ones.
This bell is an antique bronze one from India. The exact age is very hard to tell, but looking at its appearance, beautiful patina and wear and tear, there is no doubt that it is of very respectable age. On the handle there is a depiction of Garuda, the part man - part eagle Hindu God whose image has spread all over Asian territories and (spiritual/religious) traditions.
This bell weighs 140 grams and is 13 centimeters high. It is made from bronze and has an iron clapper inside.
