Tribalgh
Rare 12th Century Islamic Eye Glass Bead – Fustat, Egypt (9mm)
Rare 12th Century Islamic Eye Glass Bead – Fustat, Egypt (9mm)
Ancient Eye Glass Bead – 1200 AD, Fustat, Egypt
A remarkable Islamic period eye glass bead, handcrafted in Fustat (Old Cairo), Egypt during the 12th to 13th century AD. This exquisite bead features a mesmerizing black, teal, and white eye-like motif, a design cherished for its protective symbolism across cultures.
Specifications:
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Size:
- Diameter: 9 mm
- Height: 8 mm
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Condition:
- Very good
- Minimal wear for its age
- Visible patina, adding to its historical charm
Historical Significance & Craftsmanship
Fustat, the first capital of Islamic Egypt, was a renowned center for glassmaking and bead production. During the Fatimid and Ayyubid periods (10th–13th centuries), artisans in Fustat crafted intricate glass beads using ancient winding and molding techniques, often incorporating vibrant colors and eye motifs to ward off negative energy. These beads were highly valued and traveled along trade routes to Africa, the Middle East, and even Asia.
Owning a Fustat bead is like holding a piece of medieval Islamic history—a tangible link to the thriving markets of Cairo, where glass artisans perfected their craft over centuries.
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