Angel chimes

Angel chimes, also known as angel-abra,^{[according to whom?]} are a form of Christmas decoration popular in Europe and North America.^[1] They apparently have the same origins as the Christmas pyramid, which functions on the same principle. They differ from these, primarily, in being mass-produced from metal and might have bell-ringing angels, whereas Christmas pyramids are usually crafted from wood and do not necessarily have bells.

Function[edit]

Angel chimes have candle holders at the base which provide heat which turns a turbine at the top, which powers a series of trumpet-holding angel figures which "fly" around in a circle, striking bells beneath them. They usually have other decorative motifs, such as the Star of Bethlehem or a creche.

History[edit]

The earliest known patent for an angel chime was filed by Walter Stock of the German toy firm Adrian & Stock.^[2] The pre-World War II German-made chimes were usually made of tin and featured lithography.

In Sweden[edit]

Christmas angel chimes are popularly known as "änglaspel" in Sweden.^[3] After World War II, Swedish-made chimes became popular in both Europe and North America. These brought a simpler aesthetic in brass.

In Denmark[edit]

They are known as "Englespil" in Denmark.

In Asia[edit]

More recently, angel chimes manufactured in China has come to dominate the export market. The design now includes spinning candles.

In popular culture[edit]

There are a number of songs written about angel chimes, which include Angel's song, the Christmas Chimes. The sheet music has been compiled at the performing arts encyclopedia^[4] of the United States Library of Congress up to the present day. Ringle-rey, Shoo-hey by Birgit Ridderstedt also refers to angel chimes.

References[edit]