Ancient Chinese Faience Warring States Bead

Product Description: This Warring States Faience Glass Bead boasts exquisite concentric circle patterns, characteristic of its era. Crafted from faience, a ceramic-like material, this bead features wear, chips, and discoloration acquired over centuries.

Specifications:

• Estimated Production Period: 5th to 3rd century BCE
• Size: Diameter: 14mm, Height: 9mm
• Hole Size: 3mm
• Special Notes: As an antique item, it may exhibit scratches, cracks, or chips.
• Important Notice: The actual product may appear slightly different from the photos due to lighting conditions during photography. The colors shown are based on viewing under bright indoor lighting.

About Chinese Warring States Beads:

Warring States Beads, known as "戦国玉" in Japanese, were crafted during China's Warring States period, roughly from the 5th to 3rd century BCE, before the unification by the Qin dynasty. Although China's earliest glass objects, dating from the 11th to 8th centuries BCE, were excavated in Luoyang, Henan Province, widespread production and distribution of glass items began during the Warring States period. Early Warring States beads typically feature faience bases with glass patterns, evolving later to fully glass beads.

Common designs include spotted patterns known as "Seven Star Beads" or "Eye Beads." While the techniques and design elements were heavily influenced by Western Asia, such as Roman glass, the materials used in Chinese glass from this era differ in composition, highlighting the advanced glassmaking skills of ancient China. These beads not only hold immense historical value as the beginnings of China's glass history but are also cherished for their intricate designs and vibrant colors, attracting many collectors and enthusiasts.