Wedding Globular Trade Beads MATTER COLLECTION
Description
"Wedding Beads" were made in the Czech Republic specifically for the African trade in the 1950s and started being exported from Africa to the US and Europe in the 1980s.
These beads come in several different shapes, colors and patterns. One of the most popular shapes are the round teardrop. Another attractive shape is the flat teardrop. "Wedding beads" were also made as flat tabular shapes, stylized claw shapes and other varieties.
Provenance: Matter Collection
From the collection of Margie and Phil Matter. Margie lived in South Africa, and later she and her husband Phil opened a gallery in Tucson. Everything in this collection was in their home for more than thirty years. Africa Direct recently bought the collection; at 95, Margie wants to share the things she has loved so much.
This strand is not intended to be a ready-to-wear necklace. Although the strand can be worn "as is," the raffia holding it together is not durable and may break with use. For this reason, we recommend that you re-string the beads before wearing them.
Strand Length: 28 inches (including string/raffia)
Bead Size: 23-30 mm diameter. See picture with penny for size comparison.
153635
Approximate Age: 20th Century
People: Czech
Country of Origin: Europe
Length Details
Size Details
Material
Condition
Overall Condition: Good. Some of our items have traveled at least three continents, and have graced numerous owners.