Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
What do beads symbolize in Africa?
1 Answer
In Africa, beads represent a number of things. Beaded waist jewelry worn by women in West Africa symbolize sensuality, fertility, femininity, wealth and spiritual health. Some African tribes associate different bead colors with levels of social standing or power. Shop a selection of bead jewelry on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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Shop for Yoruba Beaded on 1stDibs
Chair-Yoruba Beaded '1'
Located in New York, NY
Traditionally created for the Yoruba tribe kings and queens and embellished with thousands of seed glass beads applied to fabric covers which are then stitched or glued onto the chai...
Category
2010s Nigerian Armchairs
Materials
Beads
$2,150
Chair-Yoruba Beaded '2'
Located in New York, NY
Traditionally created for the Yoruba tribe kings and queens and embellished with thousands of seed glass beads applied to fabric covers which are then stitched or glued onto the chai...
Category
2010s Nigerian Armchairs
Materials
Beads
$2,150
Yoruba Beaded Sash, c. 1950
Located in Chicago, IL
The colorful panels depict densely-beaded turtles, chickens, and Yoruba faces - with vertical scarification on the cheeks - bordered by cowrie shells indicating wealth and status.
Category
Mid-20th Century Nigerian Tribal Art
Materials
Shell, Fabric, Beads
Yoruba Beaded Sash, c. 1950
Located in Chicago, IL
The colorful panels depict densely-beaded turtles, snakes, and Yoruba faces - with vertical scarification on the cheeks - bordered by cowrie shells indicating wealth and status.
Category
Mid-20th Century Nigerian Tribal Art
Materials
Shell, Fabric, Beads
20th Century Yoruba Beaded Ceremonial Armchair
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Beaded Ceremonial Armchair, 20th Century, Yoruba Tribe, Nigeria
H 38.5" x W 26" x D 28" / Seat Ht 14"
FDV11578
*Wear consistent with age and use.
Category
20th Century Nigerian Chairs
Materials
Beads
$4,725 / item
Yoruba Culture–Inspired African Carnelian and Handcrafted Brass Necklace
Located in Bresso, IT
Handcrafted African necklace composed of natural African carnelian stones and non-industrial, hand-worked brass elements, assembled on a steel core wire coated in nylon for structura...
Category
2010s Arts and Crafts Beaded Necklaces
Materials
Carnelian, Brass
