Evidence of sophisticated indigenous glass technology at Ile-Ife, Nigeria, dated to about 1,000 years ago shows the region also contributed to technological innovation and creativity. The evidence shows that the region was not just a consumer of glass made elsewhere but also contributed to technological development, innovation and creativity. It also suggests that glass beads were mass-produced at Ile-Ife and traded as prestige items. The findings from the archaeological excavations at Ile-Ife include several pits that appeared to be furnace ruins, over 20,000 glass beads, 1,500 crucible fragments (ceramic vessels used in glass production), and several kilograms of glass waste. Another artefact from the site is semi-finished glass, which is the object of study of my recently published work. Semi-finished glass is a halfway vitrified glass. The raw materials for the glass have coagulated but not yet turned completely into glass.
SOURCE: BUSINESS DAY LIVE
More Stories
Botswana and Cape Verde Moved to Level 3- High Risk
10 Best Experiences in Kenya
South Africa Relaxes Travel Restrictions
These Upscale Resorts are Ideal for Anyone Craving Time in Nature
Astronomical Tourism has Become Famous in Egypt
Raising Awareness on Environmental Issues in Zimbabwe through Creativity
Fast Track to a Modern Senegal
The Cape Verde Rapper with a Feminist Message
French Gallerist Cecile Fakhoury on The Contemporary African Art Scene
8 Queer-Owned African Fashion Brands to Check Out For Pride
The Work Must Continue… Equity & Innovation for Africa’s Recovery
What’s On the Mind of Most Young Africans?