A fine collection of Western Asiatic gold beads, featuring a variety of patterns including granulated rings, a domed disc, smooth cylinders and floral shapes. All the beads are perforated through the centre, with the exception of the disc. Some wear and earthy encrustations to the surface as is consistent with the age of the beads. Many grand civilizations inhabited the area of Western Asia in Antiquity, and their wealth and prosperity are witnessed by the very sophisticated precious metal crafting of jewellery. Gold would have been hammered down to a thin layer and manipulated into different shapes. Gold and silver jewellery would have featured gold granules, glass and semi-precious stone inlays and detailed engravings. Very fine granulation along with filigree, were at the centre of Western Asiatic jewellery production and were later adopted by the Greeks, Etruscans and Romans. Measurements: L 0.2-0.6cm x H 0.1-0.5cm Weight (collective): 1.26g Provenance: Ex Japanese private collection, deceased, 1970-2010.