Chinese Bells: Ancient Sounds in a Southern Land
An interactive exhibition exploring the ancient ‘nao’ bell through the research and life’s-journey of Dr Anton Hasell.
The Chinese ‘nao’ bell is believed to be one of the earliest forms of bell produced in the world. These ancient bells, often made from bronze are now particularly rare, with only a few of the earliest examples still in existence. Due to their significance and fragility, these historic bells are unable to be rung or heard. Today it is through replicas that we can experience the music of these bells.
The replica bells featured in this exhibition were created by local researcher and bell maker Dr. Anton Hasell through his company Australian Bell and are a result of decades of study into traditional bell construction methods and exploring how to integrate these practices with modern materials and technologies. His research has particularly focused on the form of the elliptical bell and its sound mechanism, using modern technologies to improve the musicality of this bell form, and bringing this ancient musical tradition into the modern world.
Learn more about these wonderful bells and their fascinating history as you also enjoy their sounds and melodious tones.
Chinese Bells: Behind the Scenes
Join Dr Anton Hasell as he explains and demonstrates some of the mysteries and science of his research into ancient Chinese nao bells and shares some of his key findings over decades of research. ‘Chinese Bells: Ancient Sounds in a Southern Land’, the Museum’s very popular current temporary exhibition, provides people with a rare opportunity to discover more about some of the oldest bells in the world as they engage with an interactive exhibition of carefully crafted replicas. Ticket includes talk and private exhibition viewing.
The Yi Yuan Gardens are a highlight of Bendigo in Spring.
As the Gardens burst out from their Winter dormancy, the weeping flowering cherry tree is a stunning herald of the joys of the new season and of the warmer months to come. Feed the fish (Fish food is available from the Museum) or just enjoy the wonderful peace and tranquillity of these traditional Chinese Gardens.
Open: Tuesday -Sunday 9.30am – 4.30pm
(Mondays 9.30am – 4.30pm during Victorian school holidays)
Admission free.
Golden Dragon Museum’s Collection Redevelopment Project has been a key driver in our work to best care for, store and research our world-leading Collection.
In Highly Commending the Project, the judges at the recent Awards recognised this in their citation:
The judges commended this project as a remarkable two-year initiative that brings new life to the museum’s significant collection, particularly important to the Chinese community in Australia. By prioritising collection redevelopment and access, the museum has shown impressive innovation, despite limited funding. It not only enhances the preservation of cultural history but also engages interns and students, ensuring that its positive impact will be felt for years to come.
The Museum thanks the City of Greater Bendigo and Helen Macpherson Smith Trust for their support of this Project.
Photo credit: Jess White Photography