Numbered ends

Numbered ends are strings on which the flat end faces of the terminal (or all) beads carry numbering: carved or engraved digits. The name describes the technique literally — the numbers sit on the end face of the grain, where there is a flat area for crisp engraving. The purpose varies: the number may be the maker's mark and signature, an indication of a series or bead count, or simply a decorative-meaningful accent; in any case it signals that the piece is treated as a named, documented work rather than impersonal mass production. Technically the numbering requires a flat end face and a steady hand: the digits must be even in depth and read cleanly. Such beads are worked as usual — the numbering does not hinder the run, since it lies on the end faces rather than the working surface of the grain — but on the flip the numbers now hide, now reappear, lending the detail character. Sound and run depend on the underlying bead form. The model's signature is individualisation and a kind of passport for the piece. The technique shows best on dense, uniform materials with a flat end face that hold fine engraving — mammoth ivory, dense wood, horn and bone.