Enamel and trade beads

Description

I started this one with a recycled copper bar that I clumsily wrapped with wire for a rustic look.

Below that is another recycled copper piece that I fused glass enamel to.

The beads on this one are antique African trade beads called “eye” or “skunk” beads. These trade beads were originally made in Venice and brought to Africa during the 18th and 19th centuries. From the 15th to the 20th century, traders carried European glass beads across the world. The beads were highly desired by Native Americans as glass was then an unknown substance in North America.