In traditional shamanism, bells are used for many purposes, because they can serve as houses for spirits and their sound represents the voice of those spirits. These beautiful bells are made in the shape of a tortoise shield and are very nicely detailed on both sides.
In a lot of (especially) eastern traditions, the turtle holds very significant symbolism. In Chinese culture, the Turtle is one of the Four Auspicious Animals, next to Phoenix, Dragon and Tiger. They are seen as the deities and/or guardians of the four cardinal directions. The Turtle being the guardian of the North.
The appearance of the pattern on the shell of the turtle, with its very specific division in parts, is in Chinese culture associated with the magical Lo Shu square. Legend has it that 4000 years ago, a divine turtle swam out of the waters of the Lo River, on the shell of which a pattern of dots was depicted, which gave the key to the location of the Bagua numbers.
The turtle is associated with a lot of important qualities and dynamics. To name only a few;
It represents knowledge and wisdom of both heaven (its dome-shaped shell) and earth (its flat body), prosperity, perseverance and longevity.
The presence of a turtle saves people from delusions. It is believed that the knocking of the turtle's claws on the stones scares away evil spirits.
Connecting with the spirit of the Turtle can aid in career growth, promotion and financial stability.
The convex, upper part of the shell with its sometimes very bright pattern symbolizes yang, masculine energy rising to the sky. The convex, lower part is associated with the yin, feminine energy which supports and protects.
Bells such as these can be used as a separate amulet or for that purpose be sewn on your ritual costume or attributes.
These bronze bells are made in China and measure approximately 20 millimeters wide, 28 millimeters high and 18 millimeters deep.
