Antique African Trade Beads - Venetian Lampwork Eye Glass Beads

Antique African Trade Beads - Venetian Lampwork Eye Glass Beads

Discover the exquisite beauty of these five antique Venetian "Eye" Fancy Wound Glass Trade Beads. Each bead is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of Venetian artisans from the late 1800s to early 1900s, featuring intricate trail decorations and vibrant eye designs. These beads were historically used in the African trade, particularly cherished in Ghana and other parts of Africa.

• Size: 13 x 8 mm
• Condition: Very good (minor decoration loss, see photos)

The technique used to create these beads is known as lampworking or wound glass making. Artisans in Venice meticulously wound molten glass around a mandrel, often adding colorful trails and intricate patterns to each piece. These beads were highly valued in African trade networks, serving not only as currency but also as symbols of wealth and status. The exchange of these beads in Africa, particularly in regions like Ghana, played a significant role in the cultural and economic interactions between Europe and Africa.

For more stunning Venetian lampwork beads, explore our collections:

• Venetian Lampwork Beads Collection
• Old Trade Beads Collection
• Sold Venetian Lampwork Beads Archive