Jiangsu Suzhou

Jiangsu Suzhou cymbals are traditional Chinese cymbals known for their classic “trashy” tone, historically produced in Suzhou with unique craftsmanship that has made them sought-after by collectors and percussionists.

Historical Background

Suzhou, formerly called Su Chou (姑苏), became a center for cymbal production in China during the early 1900s. Early Suzhou cymbals often bore Chinese inscriptions indicating the city and manufacturer, such as 袁萬順號 or 王加班 for individual family businesses, along with phrases suggesting quality control or final sale status. These cymbals were carefully hand-polished—sometimes referred to as “water polished” (水磨天鈴)—and circulated both domestically and internationally, especially for American drum sets in the early 20th century . Vintage examples from this period, like 14” or 20.5” models, are now highly collectible. Vintage Suzhou cymbals typically have markings on the underside denoting the store, approval for sale, or manufacturer stamps, reflecting their historical and cultural heritage.

Characteristics and Sound

Jiangsu Suzhou cymbals are distinguished by their:

1. Trashy, cutting sound typical of China-type cymbals, producing both piercing highs and dark undertones.

2. Handcrafted process, including traditional hammering and polishing for tonal complexity.