How these bells were played?

These bells have no clappers and are sounded by striking. Because of their shape, each bell could sound two different notes, one if struck at the side, the other at the center. The notes produced by the set range over five octaves.

Restoration of the Bells

The bells were found in their original positions and in remarkably good condition, due to the fact that the charcoal-packed tomb had become waterlogged over time. The shaft of the tomb had also been filled with clay, stone slabs, and earth. These durable materials provided a natural method of preservation.

All the musical instruments excavated from the Zeng Houyi tomb show superb craftsmanship and function surprisingly well. Indeed, some could not be surpassed even today.