3 Strands Antique Maasai Venetian Red Whiteheart Trade Beads Kenya
Description
3 strands of old Maasai Venetian Red Whiteheart trade beads, featuring classic red glass beads with traditional white cores, known for their bold color and historical significance in African trade and adornment.
Whiteheart beads have long been used in West African and Maasai adornment and exchange, valued for their striking appearance and symbolic meaning. These Venetian-made beads were widely traded across Africa from the 19th to early 20th centuries and became deeply integrated into cultural dress, ceremony, and status expression.
These strands are not intended to be a ready-to-wear necklace. Although the strands can be worn "as is," the string holding them together is not durable and may break with use. For this reason, we recommend restringing the beads before wearing them.
Strand Length: 23 Inches
Bead Size: 2.5-6.5 mm diameter. See picture with penny for size comparison.
154916
Approximate Age: 20th Century
People: Venetian
Country of Origin: Italy
Length Details
Size Details
Material
Condition
Overall Condition: Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.