Ancient Chinese Eye Bead

Product Description: This antique bead features a deep navy glass with intricate light blue layered eye motifs. Additionally, small clear blue beads are embedded within the square hole, adding to its unique design.

Specifications:

• Origin: China
• Estimated Production Period: 5th Century BCE – 3rd Century BCE
• Size: Diameter approximately 20mm x Height 20mm
• Hole Size: Approximately 7mm (with small glass fragments embedded in the square hole)
• Special Notes:
  • Due to lighting conditions and other factors, the actual product may appear slightly different from the photos.
  • The product is photographed under lighting to reflect its appearance in a brightly lit indoor environment.
  • As an antique, it may have scratches, cracks, or chips.

About Warring States Beads:

Warring States Beads, or "Sen Koku Dama," refer to glass beads created during the Warring States period of China, roughly from the 5th to the 3rd Century BCE, before the unification by Qin. The earliest glass in China dates back to the 11th to 8th Century BCE, found in Luoyang, Henan Province. However, widespread production and circulation of glass products began during the Warring States period. Initially, beads were made of faience, a ceramic material with glass decorations, but fully glass beads soon followed. Many beads from this era feature patterns such as "Seven-Star Beads" and "Eye Beads," characterized by their distinctive spots. While the techniques and designs were influenced by Western Asia, particularly Roman glass, the material composition of Chinese glass from this period is different, showcasing the advanced glass-making skills of ancient China. These beads are valued not only for their historical significance as the beginning of China's glass history but also for their diverse designs and colors, making them highly sought after by collectors.