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Angel chimes also known as angel-abra are a form of Christmas decoration popular in Europe and North America. Apparently from 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 featuring bell-ringing angels, whereas Christmas pyramids are usually crafted from wood and don't necessarily have bells.
Contents
In 2007, a rare 1920s metal Christmas angel chime tree topper was auctioned online through eBay. Its box was labeled "electric chimes".
Function
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. Aside from this, they usually have other decorative motifs, such as the Star of Bethlehem or a creche.
History
The angel chimes tradition started in the United States about 100 years ago when immigrant families brought along German angel chimes. The earliest known patent for an angel chime was filed by Walter Stock of the German toy firm Adrian & Stock. The pre-World War II German-made chimes were usually made of tin and featured lithography.
In Sweden
Christmas angel chimes are popularly known as "änglaspel" (angel carillon) in Sweden. After World War II, Swedish-made chimes became popular in both Europe and North America. These brought a simpler aesthetic in brass.
In Denmark
They are known as "Engle Spil" (Angel Bells) in Denmark.
In Asia
More recently, angel chimes manufactured in China has come to dominate the export market. The design now includes spinning candles.
In popular culture
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 of the United States Library of Congress up to the present day.
Nina Raine uses Angel Chimes in her play, Rabbit