Warring States Period Dragonfly Eye Bead
China, 475–221 BCE
A glass bead of rounded form with a mottled green ground, decorated with multiple concentric circular motifs in cobalt blue and white, commonly referred to as “dragonfly eyes.” These beads were valued in antiquity for their striking appearance and apotropaic qualities.
Dimensions: Height 21.8 mm; Diameter 23.8 mm; Weight 20 g; Caliber 0.9 mm
Provenance: Private collection
Warring States Period Dragonfly Eye Bead
China, 475–221 BCE
A glass bead of rounded form with a mottled green ground, decorated with multiple concentric circular motifs in cobalt blue and white, commonly referred to as “dragonfly eyes.” These beads were valued in antiquity for their striking appearance and apotropaic qualities.
Dimensions: Height 21.8 mm; Diameter 23.8 mm; Weight 20 g; Caliber 0.9 mm
Provenance: Private collection
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Period: Warring States (475–221 BCE)
Type: Dragonfly Eye Bead
Color: Blue with white concentric circles
Height: 21.8 mm
Width: 20 g (likely weight, not width)
Dimension: 23.8 mm (possibly diameter)
Caliber (hole diameter): 0.9 mm
These beads were often used as decorative items, amulets, or traded luxury goods. The concentric circle design was believed to ward off evil and symbolized protection.
