Baule Brass Metal Beaded Necklace with Large Sun Pendant Ruth Flynn Collection
Description
Wonderfully crafted necklace made with phenolic resin beads, Ethiopian metal beads, and a large Baule sun pendant.
Baule brass beads are exquisite examples of traditional craftsmanship originating from the Baule people of Côte d'Ivoire. These beads are meticulously handcrafted from brass, a metal valued for its durability and radiant golden hue. Each bead is carefully shaped and engraved with intricate designs, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions of the Baule artisans.
Baule brass beads come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from small spherical beads to larger, more elaborate pendants. They often feature geometric patterns, symbolic motifs, and figurative representations, each imbued with deep cultural significance. These beads are not merely decorative; they serve as important cultural symbols, conveying messages about status, identity, and spirituality within Baule society.
Used for generations in traditional Baule jewelry and ceremonial attire, brass beads play a central role in cultural celebrations, rituals, and rites of passage. They are worn with pride as expressions of heritage and belonging and are passed down through generations as cherished heirlooms.
Baule brass beads are not only beautiful adornments; they are also tangible expressions of the artistic skill, cultural identity, and spiritual beliefs of the Baule people. Each bead tells a story, connecting wearers to their roots and preserving the traditions of one of West Africa's most esteemed ethnic groups.
Photo is an example. Yours will be similar. You are purchasing one.
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.
Provenance: Ruth Flynn Collection
Africa Direct has bought a wonderful collection of beads and trade bead necklaces designed and made by Ruth Flynn.
Ruth says, “I first fell in love with African beads when my middle child (of 5!) decided at age 13 to spend a semester going to school in Bamako, Mali, and live with my sister who was there with the World Bank. Africa Direct provided so many opportunities for me to learn about beads and make my own necklaces. I wore African bead necklaces almost every day of my career as a lawyer in Washington, DC. "
Approximate Age: 20th century
People: ["Baule"]
Country of Origin: Africa
Length Details
Size Details
Object Size: 2-18mm. See photo with ruler for size comparison.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.