Beads

A wonderful collection of 87 old Bohemian glass “vaseline” beads sourced in Morocco. Beautiful colours.

Beads have fascinated men all over the world for thousands of years. From the simplest ones made of clay, bone or horn to those made of metal, amber or glass or the most luxurious ones using precious stones and metals and where the result may sometimes be true pieces of art. Phoenicia, India, China, Rome, Tibet, Egypt, Mali, the Middle East, Mauritania, Venice, Persia, South America. You name it. Africa is not an exception to this. For centuries beads were used in Africa not only as pieces of adornment or status but, in many cases, as currency to trade a vast array of commodities (gold, ivory, exotic wood, etc.). Europe supplied the continent for hundreds of years with beads made in Murano, Bohemia, Germany, etc that mixed with those produced locally and others coming from lands farther beyond. All these beads, their awesome variety of designs, shapes, qualities, techniques, colors, material and origins have created a fascinating world that still subsists today and where we are not only captivated by what meets our eyes but also by the long and amazing history behind.    

A great strand of fifty-four trade beads sourced in Mali. They are most likely lampworked Venetian beads made in early 20th century.

Beads have  fascinated men all over the world for thousands of years. From the simplest ones made of clay, bone or horn to those made of metal, amber or glass or the most luxurious ones using precious stones and metals and where the result may sometimes be true pieces of art. Phoenicia, India, China, Rome, Tibet, Egypt, Mali, the Middle East, Mauritania, Venice, Persia, South America. You name it. Africa is not an exception to this. For centuries beads were used in Africa not only as pieces of adornment or status but, in many cases, as currency to trade a vast array of commodities (gold, ivory, exotic wood, etc.). Europe supplied the continent for hundreds of years with beads made in Murano, Bohemia, Germany, etc that mixed with those produced locally and others coming from lands farther beyond. All these beads, their awesome variety of designs, shapes, qualities, techniques, colors, material and origins have created a fascinating world that still subsists today and where we are not only captivated by what meets our eyes but also by the long and amazing history behind. 

A beautiful set of seven Moroccan silver coin pendants from Mohammed V (1909-1961), king of Morocco. Please check the lovely decorated bales. 

Huge bronze ball bead from Ghana or Mali. A most attractive African artisan work. Full of character and plenty of possibilities.

A necklace of old bronze beads from Mali. Its appeal lies both in its simplicity and the lovely openwork of the beads.