These stunning bone batik beads are adorned with the West African Adinkra symbol, Ani Bere (symbol of diligence and perseverance) This unique and beautiful symbol is widely used in Ghana. It is popular for use in mudcloth and other batik fabric and jewelry. The larger beads are ivory on antiqued bone and measure 1 inch square 25mm). They are a pillow design that is slightly thicker in the center. The drilled hole runs top to bottom and is approximately 2-2.5mm in diameter. You get a strand of 8 beads.
As with all of our handmade batik beads, there are striations and imperfections in the bone material. This is characteristic of beads made of natural material. No two beads are ever exactly identical but pairs for earrings, etc can usually be found on a strand.
Adinkra are ancient African visual symbols or motifs that date back to the Akan people in 19th century Ivory Coast and Ghana and express history, culture, beliefs and philosophy. While many symbols represent a proverb or piece of Akan wisdom, other symbols may depict historical events, customs, culture, the natural world or environment. (Not all symbols have a proverbial expression. Adinkra have historically been painted or printed onto cloth which was then worn during important sacred ceremonies including funerals, weddings, naming festivities and more. Contemporary use of Adinkra symbols has widened to use in jewelry, architecture and home decor.
Ani bere
Literal meaning: Seriousness
Symbolic meaning: Diligence; perserverence
Proverbial expression: Seriousness does not show fiery eyes; else you would see my face all red.
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