Uncanny Artist Ephemera and Objects for Artists and Collectors
  • Antique Yoruba Necklace with Bronze Bells and Bakelite Beads

    $75.00
    There is only 1 item left in stock.
    This is an Antique Yoruba Necklace with Bronze Bells and Bakelite Beads, measuring 25.5" long and composed of 9 bells and 47 beads.  Having been hand cast using the lost wax method, each bell is unique but shares a striated round head with a cross opening and a folded stem.  The bells vary in length from 1.125" (28.5mm) to 1.5" (38mm).  Their round heads vary from 0.5" (13mm) to 0.625" (16mm) in diameter.  The red oval Bakelite trade beads measure about 0.5" (13mm) in length and show some differences in the depth of their red color.  The hole measures 0.0625" (2mm) in diameter.  All are on the original coarse string with a decorative knot at back.  Maker and exact age are unknown, but similar necklaces were made at the beginning of the 20th century.  This Antique Yoruba Necklace with Bronze Bells and Bakelite Beads is in Good Condition but shows signs of wear and age.  The string broke at one point and has been knotted.  It appears that three Bakelite beads are missing.  Of the 47 remaining beads, one is chipped at the hole and others show minor surface wear.  Two of the bronze bells have significant surface wear with the striations worn down to a smooth surface.  One bell has greened and has some white calcification.  Ideal for repurposing or for wear.  If you plan to wear the necklace, I would recommend restringing the pieces and evening out the bead distribution.