It doesn't get much more elemental than these when it comes to producing a clack or clap, which is what I love about them--the most pared down (and I think very elegant) solutions to the task. The one at right shows a patent date of 1890, and is nothing more than a round glob of lead at the end of a tin strip, tethered by another tin strip to a piece of wood. (Happily, one can move the strip up and down, varying a bit the tone produced.) The other is similar in idea, just with a second piece of wood for the clapper. Perfect distillations of gesture and potential.

Left: 8 9/16" t x 2" w. Right: 6" t x 1 3/16" w. Very good condition, both work great, beautiful old dry wood patinas. Sold as a pair.