The phrase "brass bell" refers to a bell made out of brass, a type of metal. It indicates the material from which the bell is constructed. Full definition
Sadly, one of her clients hung a decorative brass bell at the door — only inches from a glass panel. (petpeoplesplace.com)
After three days of Music Fest, I had pretty much reverted to my paisley bell bottom pants days, when I used to sew Indian brass bells in the cuffs just to alert those on «the straight and narrow highway,» while I enjoyed chimes as an alternative to the sloughing of corduroy. (remonline.com)
May 1, City Council Speaker Christine Quinn and Councilmember Margaret Chin took turns ringing an old brass bell with a wooden handle to officially open the New Amsterdam Market for the 2011 season. (downtownexpress.com)