Antique Islamic Rectangular Mosaic Glass Trade Bead c.1200 AD
Discover the beauty of this exquisite rectangular-shaped mosaic glass bead, a rare artifact from the Islamic period. Handcrafted in Fustat (Old Cairo), Egypt, around 1100-1200 AD, this bead showcases the intricate glasswork of the era.
Size: 17 mm x 8 mm
Condition: Very good (lightly beveled, see photos)
History and Value of Fustat Mosaic Beads
Fustat, the first capital of Islamic Egypt, was renowned for its glassmaking industry. Artisans employed ancient techniques to create these intricate beads, fusing colorful glass canes into complex mosaic patterns. These beads were highly prized in trade and have been found in archaeological sites across Africa and beyond.
The rarity and craftsmanship of Fustat beads make them valuable collectibles, sought after by historians, collectors, and jewelry artisans alike.
