Product Description: Discover the rarity of ancient Chinese craftsmanship with this Warring States Bead, featuring concentric circle eye patterns. Due to its age, some of the eye patterns have chipped off over time.
Specifications:
Origin: China
Estimated Production Period: 5th to 3rd century BCE
Diameter: 24.5mm
Height: 18.5mm
Hole Size: 13mm
Special Notes:
This is an antique item and may have scratches, cracks, or chips.
There may be new chips; please refer to the photos for details.
About Warring States Beads:
Warring States Beads, or "戦国玉" (Sengoku-dama), are glass beads made during China's Warring States period, roughly from the 5th to 3rd century BCE, prior to the unification by the Qin dynasty. While the earliest Chinese glass artifacts, dating back to the 11th to 8th centuries BCE, were discovered in Luoyang, Henan Province, widespread production of glass items began in earnest during the Warring States period. Early Warring States beads were primarily made of faience—a ceramic material decorated with glass designs. Later, fully glass beads became more common. Popular patterns included "Seven Star Beads" and "貼眼玉" (Eye Beads), characterized by dotted designs.
The techniques and design elements for these glass beads were influenced by the Roman glassware and other Western Asian regions. However, the unique material composition of Chinese Warring States glass beads indicates a distinct and advanced level of glass manufacturing technology in ancient China. These beads not only hold historical significance as the inception of Chinese glass history but are also cherished for their intricate designs and vibrant colors, attracting many enthusiasts and collectors.
