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A Gothic boxwood miniature prayer bead. Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art / Public Domain.

The Intricate Carvings of Gothic Boxwood Miniature Prayer Beads (Video)

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Unlocking centuries-old mysteries, Gothic Boxwood Miniature Prayer Beads have long baffled experts with their intricate scenes delicately carved into walnut-sized spheres during the 1400s and 1500s. Now, thanks to high-resolution scans, these miniature marvels come to life, revealing their astonishing detail. Explore these enigmatic Gothic Boxwood Miniature Prayer Beads, where each bead conceals a world of stories within its petite form. Delve into their intricate craftsmanship, where scenes are packed with characters and narratives. In one bead, the top half alone boasts an astounding 58 separate figures, a testament to the skilled hands that shaped them.

These miniature treasures have transcended time as conduits for meditation and pathways to prayer. Amidst scenes like the crucifixion, where even the tiniest spears are carved from separate wood splinters, the devotion and craftsmanship of their creators shine through. Witness the Three Wise Men's tale unfold within a mere two inches, a journey through faith and artistry. The high-resolution scans breathe life into these Gothic Boxwood Miniature Prayer Beads, allowing us to appreciate the intricate worlds they harbor, centuries after their creation.

Top image: A Gothic boxwood miniature prayer bead. Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art / Public Domain.

By Robbie Mitchell

 
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Robbie

I’m a graduate of History and Literature from The University of Manchester in England and a total history geek. Since a young age, I’ve been obsessed with history. The weirder the better. I spend my days working as a freelance... Read More

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