Beads 5 (1993) O.P.
In Memoriam: Kenneth E. Kidd, 1906-1994, by Jamie Hunter and Karlis Karklins
Pioneer bead researcher Kenneth Earl Kidd passed away peacefully in Peterborough, Ontario, on 26 February 1994, at the age of 87. This memorial reviews his distinguished career and provides an extensive list of his publications.
Gold-Glass Beads: A Review of the Evidence, by Maud Spaer
The study of gold-glass beads was given a considerable boost in the 1970s by Weinberg’s report on their manufacture in Hellenistic Rhodes and by Alekseeva’s and Boon’s studies on finds from southern Russia and Britain, respectively. Nothing comparable has been published in the intervening years, but scattered new information has appeared. This paper aims to survey and review the available data on manufacturing technique, style, provenience and chronology. An attempt is also made to fit gold-glass beads into the general framework of glass history. The main focus is on the finds of the Mediterranean and related regions in pre-Islamic times. Note is taken of the continuation of the use of gold-glass beads in Medieval Europe.
The A Speo Method of Heat Rounding Drawn Glass Beads and its Archaeological Manifestations, by Karlis Karklins
From at least the early 17th century to the latter part of the 18th century, drawn glass beads over about 4 mm in diameter were generally rounded in European glasshouses using a method called a speo by the Italians who apparently invented it. The little-known process involved mounting a number of tube segments on the tines of a multi-pronged iron implement which was then inserted in a furnace and turned until the tubes were rounded to the desired degree. Beads produced in this manner often exhibit distinctive characteristics and are easily identified in archaeological collections.
Powdered-Glass Beads and Bead Trade in Mauritania, by Marie-José Opper and Howard Opper
Artisans in Kiffa and several other towns in southern Mauritania have produced a unique kind of powdered-glass bead for several generations. Commonly called “Kiffa beads,” they generally copy the designs and forms of ancient beads, as well as more recent European examples. This article discusses their history, manufacture and relevance in Mauritanian culture. While production of the beads recently ceased for a time, several women have again begun to make them though the new varieties are not as inspiring as their predecessors.
Lun Bawang Beads, by Heidi Munan
The Lun Bawang and related peoples of east Sarawak, west Sabah and Brunei have a long tradition of using beads for personal ornamentation and as value objects. They share in the general Borneo bead heritage, but follow their own tastes and fashions. Some Lun Bawang have started reproducing their favorite opaque beads from clay to sell as well as to wear on informal occasions. This new cottage industry brings a satisfactory income to the beadmakers, and helps to preserve their heirloom property.
Book, Video and DVD Reviews in Volume 5
Beads of the World: A Collector’s Guide with Price Reference, by Peter Francis, Jr. (1994), reviewed by Stefany Tomalin • Beads from the West African Trade Series, Vol. VII, by John Picard and Ruth Picard (1993), reviewed by Marvin T. Smith • Lewis C. Wilson on Glass Bead Making (video) and Lewis C. Wilson on Lampworking: Advanced Beads, Bracelets, Marbles (video), by Crystal Myths, Inc. (1993, 1994), reviewed by Karlis Karklins • Baubles, Buttons and Beads: The Heritage of Bohemia, by Sibylle Jargstorf (1993), reviewed by Anita von Kahler Gumpert • Beads of the Bison Robe Trade: The Fort Union Trading Post Collection, Steven Leroy DeVore (1992), reviewed by Timothy K. Perttula.