Orange Bohemian Trade Beads and Skunks 42 Inch
Description
Red Skunks and Bohemian glas beads.
"Trade Beads" refer to beads primarily produced in Venice, Bohemia, and other European countries from the late 1400s to the early 1900s, traded in Africa and the Americas. The peak of this trade occurred from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s, with the Venetians dominating production. J.F. Sick and Co. and Moses Lewin Levin played significant roles as bead brokers/importers. The beads gained renewed popularity in the late 1960s when exported from Africa to the U.S. and Europe. The term "Trade Beads" became widely used, and they were also known as "Love Beads" during the Hippie era. As demand grew, specific names like "Russian Blues" and "Dutch Donuts" emerged, contributing to the beads' collectability. Today, these beads are highly sought after, with some styles becoming rarer as African traders venture deeper into the continent to find them.
Strand Length
42 inches (includes rafia and/or string)
Bead Size
7-15 mm diameter. See picture with penny for size comparison.
136361
Approximate Age: Late 19th to Mid 20th Century
People: Bohemian
Country of Origin: Europe
Length Details
Size Details
Material
Condition
Overall Condition: Good. Some of these beads have traveled at least three continents, and have graced numerous owners.