Assorted Bone Trade Beads - Kenya

The use of trade beads as ornaments displaying the wealth of the owner or used as currency dates back to the 16th Century when traders from the North brought beads, much prized in African culture, to exchange for local artisan products. This string of bone beads were probably made in Kenya to serve the same purpose as the glass trade beads. They are a striking decorative object in their own right and an interesting conversation piece.