Bead c. 15th century

This small, gray, stone bead, created by an anonymous artist in the 15th century, exemplifies the craftsmanship of early bead making. The bead’s smooth surface and simple form, measuring 2 1/8 x 1 1/8 inches, suggests it was likely part of a larger piece of jewelry. The bead, currently housed in the Minneapolis Institute of Art, is an intriguing example of a type of art that was once a common part of daily life.