Tribalgh
Antique Black Venetian Lampwork Glass Trade Beads with Trail Decoration, 11mm
Antique Black Venetian Lampwork Glass Trade Beads with Trail Decoration, 11mm
Discover the beauty of these Antique Venetian lampwork trade beads, crafted in Venice and used in the African trade during the late 1800s to early 1900s. This unique strand features five stunning black “fancy” Venetian beads, each adorned with intricate trail decorations, exemplifying the artistry of Venetian glassmakers. These beads were highly prized in West Africa, particularly in Ghana, where they were traded as valuable items.
- Bead size: 11 mm in length, 7 mm in diameter
- Condition: Very good with light beveling and tiny air bubbles (see photos)
These beads are more than just decorative items; they represent a rich history of trade between Europe and Africa. Venetian lampwork beads, also known as wound glass beads, were painstakingly crafted by hand in Venice, using the lampworking technique. This process involves heating glass rods over a flame and shaping them into beads, with detailed embellishments like trails being added while the glass is still hot. Their journey across the seas to Africa symbolizes the deep cultural exchanges between continents, where they were used in various tribal ceremonies and as symbols of wealth and status.
Trade beads like these were especially prominent in Ghana, where they played a crucial role in trade and personal adornment. Their timeless beauty and historic significance make them a valuable addition to any bead collection.
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