Brass Strand of Beads

Rough-cast drums with notched sides, glinting like a pocketful of gold dust.

This strand of beads is from Africa. It is brass. Brass beads in a strand are often graded or mixed by size, so the rhythm of the strand is as much a part of the piece as the beads. Squat, uneven barrel beads with pitted surfaces and short vertical ridges. Bright patches contrast with darker grime in the hollows, giving a patinated look. They are strung tightly in a spiral, a few turned on their sides. It measures 37 inches in length.

Made by hand, and not shy about proving it.