Abstract
Many ancient Chinese bells, some more than 3000 years old, remain from the time of the Shang and Zhou dynasties. Most of these bells, being oval or almond shaped, sound two distinctly different musical tones, depending upon where they are struck. Studies of these bells have provided us with much knowledge about the musical culture of Bronze age China. Results are reported from our investigations of original bells in the Shanghai Museum and the Sackler Gallery at the Smithsonian Institution, as well as replica bells in our own laboratory. Modes of vibration in original bells, obtained by experimental modal testing in the museum, compare very well with holographic interferograms of replica bells. Our results are compared with our catalogue of data on ancient Chinese bells gathered by other investigators. Although acoustical studies have revealed a great deal about ancient Chinese music and casting practices, several questions still remain unanswered.
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