Discover the beauty of this large polychrome Kiffa bead, a rare handmade glass bead from Mauritania’s historic Kiffa town, crafted using age-old techniques.
Measuring 27 x 16 x 9 mm, this stunning bead features intricate hand-applied decorations in multiple colors, showcasing the artistry of traditional bead makers.
This bead has been expertly repaired by a skilled Kiffa bead maker, ensuring its durability while maintaining its authentic charm (see photos). Such large Kiffa beads are rare finds, making this piece a true collector’s item.
Origin & History:
Kiffa beads, also known as Murakad beads, originate from Mauritania, West Africa, and date back to the early to mid-1900s. These beads are crafted using a unique technique where finely ground glass is shaped and decorated without molds or modern tools. Instead, artisans use a mixture of powdered glass, natural binders, and dyes, then fire them in open-pit kilns.
These beads hold cultural and historical significance, as they were once worn as status symbols, dowry gifts, and protective amulets. Today, Kiffa beads are highly prized by collectors and jewelry designers worldwide.
