Tribalgh
Antique Striped Black Venetian Lampwork Glass Trade Beads 13-14mm
Antique Striped Black Venetian Lampwork Glass Trade Beads 13-14mm
These four antique striped black Venetian wound glass trade beads are a stunning example of craftsmanship from the late 1800s to early 1900s. Each bead features intricate trail decoration, beautifully complemented by tiny air bubbles, adding to their charm. Made in Venice, these beads were traded across Africa, including Ghana, where they played a significant cultural and economic role.
- Bead Size: 13-14 mm (length) x 10-11 mm (diameter)
- Condition: Excellent with tiny air bubbles and minor decoration loss (see photos)
The meticulous technique used to create these beads is known as lampwork or wound glass beadmaking. This process involves skillfully winding molten glass around a mandrel to shape the bead, and artisans often added decorative touches like trails or stripes while the glass was still hot. Venetian lampwork beads like these were highly prized in Africa, especially in Ghana, where they were exchanged for goods and became symbols of wealth and status.
These beads not only hold aesthetic value but also represent the deep history of trade between Europe and Africa, making them a significant piece of both cultural and artistic heritage.
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