Discover the beauty of this antique Islamic period mosaic glass trade bead, crafted in Fustat (Old Cairo, Egypt) around 1100-1200 AD. This stunning bead features a vibrant green glass base adorned with intricate red and white mosaic eye patterns, a hallmark of ancient Fustat beadmaking.
Size: 14 mm X 11 mm
Condition: Very good, with minor chipping
History & Value of Fustat Mosaic Beads
Fustat, the first capital of Islamic Egypt, was renowned for its glassmaking industry. Skilled artisans created exquisite mosaic beads using a technique that involved layering and fusing colored glass canes. These beads were highly valued in the ancient trade routes, sought after for their intricate designs and vibrant colors.
Owning a Fustat mosaic bead is like holding a piece of history—each bead tells the story of medieval craftsmanship and the vibrant trade networks that connected Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.
