This beautiful and rare black "Floral" Venetian glass trade bead features intricate raised decoration, a hallmark of expert lampwork craftsmanship from Venice. A remarkable piece, it was used in the African trade during the late 1800s to early 1900s, carrying with it a rich history of global exchange.
- Size: 23 x 10 mm
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Condition: Very good (some minor decoration loss and a small air bubble; please refer to photos)
Venetian lampwork beads, also known as wound glass beads, were painstakingly crafted by winding molten glass around a metal rod. These beads, often adorned with floral and other intricate designs, were highly valued in trade, particularly across Africa. In Ghana and other regions, such beads were exchanged for goods and even served as a form of currency. Their beauty and craftsmanship made them desirable, and they became significant cultural symbols, marking important occasions.
Explore more of TribalGH's collection of stunning Venetian Lampwork Beads currently for sale, browse our Old Trade Beads Collection, or visit the Archives to see sold Venetian lampwork beads.
