Artwork preview

Pellet Bell in the Form of a Kala Head

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The object depicted is a bronze pellet bell in the form of a Kala head. The bell features a human-like face with a wide open mouth and protruding tongue. The face has a large nose, bulging eyes, and a forehead adorned with decorative elements resembling leaves or flowers. A loop is visible at the top of the bell, likely used for suspension. The object's surface exhibits a dark brown patina, suggesting age and wear. The background is blurred and appears to be a display case or shelf. The overall style of the piece suggests it may be of Southeast Asian origin, possibly from Thailand or Cambodia, and is attributed to the artist known as Kala.

Artwork details

Date:
ca. 12th century
Medium:
Bronze
Culture:
Indonesia (Java)
Dimensions:
475 × 625 px
Museum record:
View original
Palette