Glass Bead Bracelet
This is a small 13-piece glass string bead bracelet. The sizes of the beads vary as well as the colors. The material of the beads seems to be wholly glass, however, amber beads are not uncommon. The beads illustrate various styles and fashions of the time. The fourth bead from the left seems to be a bead made in Ireland, due to the slanted lines across the top and bottom of the bead, as well as the dots along the center of the bead.[1] The other beads along the bracelet display some other typical styles: for example, the simple vertical lines running along the bead, and the “window-like” checkers.
In 1933, this object among many others was discovered in a grave approximately 20 meters from Felding Brook in Resen parish, Fellenbæk, Denmark. Due to modern agricultural practices, such as tilling with large machinery, it is quite common for artifacts to be unearthed. It seems this bracelet is most definitely dated between 775-1049, however, more specifically sometime during the 9th century between 850 and 900.[2] Because this is a grave good, it would most likely have been deposited purposely with the person being buried.[3]
Due to the fact this is a bracelet of glass beads, in this instance it would have most likely been used as a purely cosmetic item. Yet in Kaupang, an important trading center, the use of glass beads as currency preceded the use of silver coins as currency.[4] However, it is more likely that this intricate bracelet illustrated status and wealth of the wearer. According to William Fitzhugh, “glass and amber beads were a sign of status, prestige, and perhaps regional affiliation.”[5] Therefore, a small bracelet such as this could have enhanced the influence and social power of an individual.[6] Because beads, namely glass and amber ones, were so valued, they help archeologists and historians understand changing styles and fashions over time.
Uncovering an object such as this bracelet would give concrete evidence of some of the grave goods of this era. Understanding death rituals and rites, helps us to make connections and draw lines between different polities. We are also able to recognize any intricate art designs and fashions that have changed over the years, and identify any mixture of styles from other cultures.
