Description

Ancient Islamic glass beads dating from approximately 900–1200 AD.

This carefully assembled collection includes mosaic beads, folded (mirror) beads, trailed beads, blue eye beads, and a rare amaranth mosaic eye bead. Three early Venetian chevron beads dating to the 16th century illustrate the continued circulation and appreciation of glass beads over several centuries.

Normal surface erosion and weathering are consistent with prolonged burial in desert conditions. The strand was collected in Mali.

Dimensions

Diameter: 9–16 mm

Height: 7–20 mm

Length: 52 cm (20½ in)

43 beads

References

Middle Eastern and Venetian Glass Beads, Augusto Panini, p. 53.