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What do beads symbolize in Africa?

1 Answer
What do beads symbolize in Africa?
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
Shop for Yoruba Beaded on 1stDibs
Chair-Yoruba Beaded '2'
Located in New York, NY
Traditionally created for the Yoruba tribe kings and queens and embellished with thousands of seed
Category

2010s Nigerian Armchairs

Materials

Beads

Chair-Yoruba Beaded '1'
Located in New York, NY
Traditionally created for the Yoruba tribe kings and queens and embellished with thousands of seed
Category

2010s Nigerian Armchairs

Materials

Beads

Yoruba Beaded Sash, c. 1950
Located in Chicago, IL
depict densely-beaded turtles, chickens, and Yoruba faces - with vertical scarification on the cheeks
Category

Mid-20th Century Nigerian Tribal Art

Materials

Shell, Fabric, Beads

Yoruba Beaded Sash, c. 1950
Located in Chicago, IL
depict densely-beaded turtles, snakes, and Yoruba faces - with vertical scarification on the cheeks
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
Category

20th Century Nigerian Chairs

Materials

Beads

African Tribal Yoruba Beaded Ceremonial Crown Altar Headdress
Located in Forney, TX
A scarce large vintage African tribal beaded ceremonial crown altar headdress, the Yoruba peoples
Category

Mid-20th Century Nigerian Tribal Tribal Art

Materials

Shell, Beads

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