The spell of ancient China has always fascinated artists of the western world and none moreso than this ancient folk story. 

A bell-smith is ordered by the Emperor of China to cast a huge bell but twice he has failed. He must not fail a third time or he will be beheaded. His daughter fears for her father and consults an astrologist who tells her the secret to her fathers success but this will mean her own ultimate sacrifice.

"The Soul of the Great Bell is one of Lafcadio Hearn's (1850-1904) most famous stories.