This Southwest-inspired rustic wind bell is called "Mission Espada" and is a new addition to our original "Mission Bell Collection. Espada is the first of our bells to include a grape motif using bronze as a decorative material. The Patina Finish is a weathered bronze look with accents ranging from dark bronze to yellow and gold. Our signature grape motif provides intricate details on the bell’s surface that find their inspiration from grapes on the vine.
The length of the bell body plus the striker is about 24 inches. The width and depth are approximately 4 inches respectively. A 10-inch hanging chain is included making the total length about 34". This distinctive handcrafted bell makes a gorgeous addition to any home, deck, patio, greenhouse, or garden. It is the perfect gift for anyone that enjoys rustic elegance.
A bit of Spanish Mission History
Mission San Francisco de la Espada was the first Spanish Mission in Texas. It was founded in 1690 as San Francisco de Los Tejas near present-day Nacogdoches in East Texas. It was renamed as Mission San Francisco de la Espada when it moved to San Antonio in 1731. Distinctive Spanish design features can be seen in the church doorway, bell tower, and brick archways. Espada’s ranch, Rancho de las Cabras, is 23 miles south of the Mission and had as many as 1,262 head of cattle and 4,000 sheep. Mission Espada’s aqueduct is the nation’s oldest in continuous use. It still uses San Antonio River water to irrigate local crops today illustrating the connection the river makes between the past and the present.
