This stunning round black "feather" Venetian wound glass trade bead showcases exquisite craftsmanship from Venice, Italy. The bead features intricate trail decoration that adds depth and character, making it a remarkable piece of history. These beads, such as the one found in Picard, Volume IV, p.35, strand 2, were highly valued in the African trade during the late 1800s to early 1900s.
Size: 21 mm x 10 mm
Condition: Very good
Venetian lampwork, also known as wound glass, is created by winding molten glass around a mandrel, often decorated with trails or other designs while still soft. This meticulous technique was perfected by Venetian glassmakers, producing beads of outstanding quality and beauty. These beads played a significant role in African trade, especially in regions like Ghana, where they were used as currency, symbols of wealth, and in ceremonial purposes.
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