"The tolling bell measures time not our time, rung by the unhurried ground swell, a time older than the time of chronometers." - T.S. Eliot

The love of the sea has long been the inspiration for nautical themed accessories and there is an amazing story attached to artful decorating using ship bells.

The history of nautical bells dates as far back as the late 1400s as a means of telling time while a ship is at sea. Originally, the bell would be rung to signify the half hour, as indicated by an hour-glass which ran by the half hour.

Each time the hour-glass was turned over, the bell would be struck, signifying the half-hour increment. In later years, the bell would be struck in pairs of strikes starting at noon. Each watch period was a four-hour duration of duty.

This system of chiming the bell let the watchstander know how much time he had left on his shift. When the crew member standing watch heard eight bells, he knew his watch was over.

Our purser's bell is crafted in solid brass and attached to a wooden stand, French finished in black. Call your own crew to attention by pulling the hand-knotted rope to ring the bell.

Another addition to your nautical bell decor should also include a bosun's whistle. This whistle, used by the Boatswain, pronounced Bosun, is the senior crewman of the deck department. Because this whistle is extremely loud, it is used to signal the crew even during the most severe of storms.

Our bosun's whistle is made of brass and copper, complete with an attached brass lanyard for hanging around your neck. When not in use, this whistle can be stored in its own wooden display box.

Make sure your nautical decor also includes the musical sound of a 6" brass fog bell. Whether you want to call the crew to order, toll last call for the bar or time for dinner, this bell is a stunning addition to your seaside theme.

Nautical decor is as timeless as the sea itself. To find out more about nautical bells or anything else from pillows to portholes, please contact us.