Very Rare Ethiopian Large Wooden Trade Beads 38inch

Large and unusual strand of hand-carved wooden beads from Ethiopia, composed of 26 substantial, irregularly shaped beads. The beads vary naturally in size and form, with faceted, roughly rounded surfaces and individually carved characteristics. The warm brown wood has developed a pleasing, aged patina with considerable surface wear from use.

The beads are strung together as a continuous strand and have the substantial, tactile quality associated with traditional Ethiopian prayer-bead strands. Each bead retains evidence of hand-working rather than uniform machine production.

Ethiopia, likely northern Ethiopia.
Antique or early 20th century, possibly earlier; age is estimated based on appearance and wear.

A particularly attractive example for collectors of African material culture, Ethiopian religious objects, and traditional wooden beads.

This strand is not intended to be a ready-to-wear necklace. Although the strand can be worn "as is," the string holding it together is not durable and may break with use. For this reason, we recommend that you restring the beads before wearing them.

157201