ANTIQUE ANTON REICHE TIN DECORATIVE BELL DOUBLE SIDED CHOCOLATE MOLD #9768 4"

This antique tin decorative bell is double sided chocolate mold has a dark patina with a number 9768 ~4. In researching this mold, it seems to be attributed to Anton Reiche which produced over 50,000 designs and used sequential catalog numbering. The 9768 mold number helps identify the maker who's numbers in the 9000 range are consistent with Anton Reiche's Dresden production The mounting frame construction with corner rivets is particularly consistent with Anton Reiche's production style The laurel wreath cartouche design was a popular motif in late 19th to early 20th century German decorative arts The bell design with laurel wreath was particularly associated with: The bell symbolism: Christmas — church bells and celebration Wedding celebrations — bells as a symbol of matrimony New Year — bell ringing traditions Patriotic/civic occasions — Liberty Bell symbolism Bell design is considerably rarer than rabbit or Santa molds — holiday bell molds are less commonly found The blank cartouche/medallion in the center of the bell was likely intended for personalization — perhaps a monogram or date could be added to the chocolate — making this a particularly versatile mold There is one ring handle/clasp included Tags: Antique, vintage, Tin, bell, Germany chocolate mold, patina