Bell pull

A bell pull is a mechanical device used to ring a servant's bell in a large house or other building. It typically consists of a handle, often decorative and made of materials such as wood, porcelain, or metal, attached to a cord or chain. Pulling the handle activates a mechanism, usually a series of wires or ropes, that transmits the movement to a bell located elsewhere in the building, often in the servants' quarters.

Bell pulls were a common feature in upper-class homes from the 18th century through the early 20th century. They provided a means for residents to summon servants without having to shout or travel to their location. The location of each bell pull within the house was often identified by a small label or indicator near the bell in the servants' quarters. More elaborate systems might have included a visual indicator, such as a numbered dial, to identify the specific room from which the bell was pulled.

With the advent of electricity and the development of electric bells and intercom systems, the use of bell pulls declined. However, many historical homes still retain their original bell pull systems as decorative features or historical artifacts. The term "bell pull" can also refer to the decorative embroidered strips, often featuring elaborate designs, that are hung beneath the pull handle, acting as a visual indicator of the bell's purpose or location.