Collection of Phoenician Glass Beads

Eastern Mediterranean, c. 600–200 BC

A beautiful set of four ancient Phoenician glass beads, each showcasing the artistry, symbolism, and far-reaching trade of the ancient Mediterranean world.

One features a striking dark blue surface with silvery iridescence and applied blue eye motifs believed to protect against evil. Another is a small black cylindrical bead with delicate white and turquoise spirals. A third is decorated with orange and white chevrons dragged across a black base. The fourth and largest bead is barrel shaped with flowing trails of yellow and white over deep black glass.

The Phoenicians were renowned for their skill in glassmaking and their role as master traders. These beads were worn as powerful amulets and traded across cultures from Anatolia to North Africa. The blue eye motif was especially valued as protection against the evil eye, believed to reflect back malevolent gazes.

Rich in beauty and ancient meaning, this rare set is a remarkable link to the spiritual and artistic traditions of the ancient Mediterranean world. A striking addition to any collection of early jewelry or ancient art.

Good condition. Surface wear and abrasions commensurate with age, nicks and chip, with encrusted patina and rich earthen deposits throughout. Size approx. 3,2cm x 1,2cm, 1,7cm x 1,6cm, 1,1cm x 1,2cm & 1,0cm x 0,8cm.

Provenance: British private collection.

For a similar examples see:

Necklace, The British Museum, Accession Number: 133713 (https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/W_1856-1223-1159) 

Glass eye beads, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession Number: 17.194.717 (https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/249950)