String of beads - Mauritania - Trade Beads necklace

Antique West African 'Trade Beads' necklace with 10x rare face beads – circa 1880-1920 Special and historically rich collector's necklace (African Trade Beads) from the Sahara region (Mauritania / West Africa), dating to the period 1880–1920. A unique composition that reflects the historic trade routes between Europe and West Africa. The 10 central 'Face Beads' (Gezichtskralen): The ten large blue cylinder beads (about 2.5 cm) are beautiful local craftsmanship from the Sahara region Mauritania. They are hand-cut from solid organic material (bone) and deeply colored with natural indigo pigments. The manual chisel marks and the natural structure of the bone are beautifully visible under macro photography. Other beads; * Classic black Millefiori beads with inlaid yellow flower-murrines. * Colorful, marbled 'End of Day' beads, made from historic scrap glass. * Original black antique spacers to protect the beads. * Total length: approx. 49 cm (compact strung strand) / 82 cm fully extended cord * Total weight: 206 grams (measured on a digital scale) * Excellent antique condition with a beautiful, well-worn patina. Strung on the authentic, thick cotton cord. Originating from a private collection brought by my grandfather in the 1940s on one of his travels.

Estimate:£186.47

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