This group consists of seven antique glass marble beads made in Lauscha, Thuringia, Germany.
Beads of this type first appeared around 1840 and remained in production until the mid-20th century. Originally manufactured as decorative components for chandeliers, they were later recognised by export companies in Lauscha and Nuremberg as attractive personal ornaments and supplied to African markets, including Togoland, which was a German colony from 1884 to 1916.
Three of the seven beads are preserved in excellent condition and share the same striped design. Three further beads show varying degrees of age-related wear, including two with a matching blue, white and amber feathered pattern. The seventh bead is considerably more worn, with a smoothly and evenly weathered glass surface consistent with prolonged use.
Size: 16-18 mm