Ship's bell

A french ship's bell, dated to 1745. It has a 15 3/8 inch mouth diameter, with the raised inscription: 'IESU+MARIA+SAINTE+ANNE' (with the Ns rendered in reverse), below is the '17' a cruficex '45, and a crowned French shield bearing the fleur-de-lys, the French Royal Coat of Arms. The bell is well cast, with argent and two single canons alone. There is a depression on inside of the crown and outside of soundbow with a ridge as normal Continental practice. Round cast-in crown staple with later wrought iron clapper, top closed over it. Soundbow is 1 3/16 inches thick.