Ancient Chinese Faience Warring States Bead

Product Description: This is a Warring States faience bead of exceptional quality and preservation. Originating from ancient China, this bead represents a significant artifact from the Warring States period.

Specifications:

• Origin: China
• Estimated Production Period: 5th century BCE – 3rd century BCE
• Size: Approximately 15mm diameter x 12mm height
• Hole Size: Approximately 5.5mm

Special Notes:

Due to the antique nature of this item, it may exhibit signs of wear such as scratches, cracks, or chips. Please note that 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 Warring States Beads:

Warring States beads, also known as "戦国玉," were crafted during the Warring States period in China, roughly between the 5th and 3rd centuries BCE, before the unification under the Qin dynasty. The earliest known Chinese glass artifacts date back to the 11th to 8th centuries BCE, discovered in Luoyang, Henan Province. However, it wasn't until the Warring States period that glass products began to circulate widely. Early Warring States beads were primarily made of faience, a ceramic material decorated with glass patterns. Eventually, entirely glass beads were manufactured, featuring designs often referred to as "Seven Star Beads" or "貼眼玉," characterized by their spotted decorations.

While the techniques and design elements share similarities with Roman glass from Western Asia, the composition of Chinese glass from this period, including Warring States beads, differs significantly. This distinction highlights the advanced glass-making technology of ancient China. These beads hold historical significance as the starting point of China's glass history and are cherished for their intricate designs and vibrant colors, attracting many collectors.