Bead (4) - Rwanda - Tutsi beaded bottles

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Set of four Tutsi beaded glass bottles from Rwanda, dating to the 1950s–1960s, made of verre with hand‑stitched beadwork, including two larger round‑based bottles (H 25 cm x Ø 11 cm) and one square‑based bottle (H 23 cm x Ø 6.5 cm) plus two small bottles (H 12 cm x Ø 3.5 cm).

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Description from the seller

Set of Tutsi beaded bottles – Rwanda – 20th century

A set of traditional Tutsi bottles from Rwanda, entirely covered with finely hand-assembled glass beads.
These decorative objects showcase Rwandan artisanal craftsmanship, where beadwork plays a vital role in cultural and symbolic expression.

The bottles feature rich geometric patterns, alternating red, white, and blue, arranged in chevrons, triangles, and rhythmic bands. The compositions are balanced and harmonious, highlighting the slender shapes of the containers.

Traditionally, this type of bottles was used for symbolic, decorative, or ceremonial purposes, notably to contain valuable liquids (milk, banana beer) or as prestige objects.

Details :
Origin: Rwanda
• Ethnicity: Tutsi
• Period: 20th century
Technique: glass beads sewn or assembled by hand on a support.

Dimensions :

Round base: H 25cm x D 11cm
Square base: H 23cm x D 6.5cm.
2 small: H 12cm x D 3.5cm

Set of Tutsi beaded bottles – Rwanda – 20th century

A set of traditional Tutsi bottles from Rwanda, entirely covered with finely hand-assembled glass beads.
These decorative objects showcase Rwandan artisanal craftsmanship, where beadwork plays a vital role in cultural and symbolic expression.

The bottles feature rich geometric patterns, alternating red, white, and blue, arranged in chevrons, triangles, and rhythmic bands. The compositions are balanced and harmonious, highlighting the slender shapes of the containers.

Traditionally, this type of bottles was used for symbolic, decorative, or ceremonial purposes, notably to contain valuable liquids (milk, banana beer) or as prestige objects.

Details :
Origin: Rwanda
• Ethnicity: Tutsi
• Period: 20th century
Technique: glass beads sewn or assembled by hand on a support.

Dimensions :

Round base: H 25cm x D 11cm
Square base: H 23cm x D 6.5cm.
2 small: H 12cm x D 3.5cm

Details

Era
1900-2000
Title additional information
Tutsi beaded bottles
Number of items
4
Material
Glass
Ethnic group/ culture
Tutsi
Country of Origin
Rwanda
Condition
Excellent condition: barely used with minimal signs of wear
Height
25 cm
Width
11 cm
Depth
11 cm
Estimated Period
1950-1960
BelgiumVerified
7363
Objects sold
100%
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