History of Beaded Flowers
It is estimated that the art of beaded flowers was practiced across Europe and England as early as the 1500's. In an effort to support themselves, French and Italian peasants used to collect defective or discarded beads, strung them on wire, and shaped to flowers designs. The finished flowers were used in bouquets, alter displays, and memorial wreaths. Because of the work and skill involved in creating these beautiful "works of art", beaded flowers have always been collectible and timeless treasures. Many antique flowers can be found in museums, as well as many private collections, all over the world. A few notable people who owned and treasured examples of this fine art were Marie Antoinette, Madam Pompadour, Napoleon's Josephine, Princess Grace, Princess Caroline, Patricia Nixon, and William Randolph Hearst.