Bead in the Shape of a Tortoise c. 501 - 800

This small, green glass bead, crafted in the shape of a tortoise, dates back to the 6th to 8th centuries. While the artist remains unknown, this bead is a testament to the skill and artistry of ancient glassworkers. The bead's unique shape, likely intended for adornment, demonstrates the significance of the tortoise in the cultural context of its time. Now part of the Minneapolis Institute of Art's collection, the bead offers a glimpse into the materials and artistic practices of the past.