Antique Green Venetian Lampwork Trade Beads, 10x6mm, African Wound Glass Beads

Discover a set of five antique Venetian wound glass trade beads, also known as "lampwork beads," featuring a beautiful green hue with intricate "fancy" or "swirl" trail decoration. These exquisite beads were handcrafted in Venice, Italy, and were a significant part of the African trade during the late 1800s to early 1900s. Ideal for collectors or jewelry enthusiasts, these beads are an exceptional example of historic glass craftsmanship.

• Size: 10 x 6 mm
• Condition: Excellent, with a few small air bubbles (see photos)

These Venetian beads were expertly created using the traditional lampwork technique, also known as wound glass beadmaking. This labor-intensive process involved winding molten glass around a mandrel, resulting in the unique, hand-crafted appearance seen in each bead. The intricate trail decoration further highlights the high skill of Venetian artisans.

Venetian beads like these were highly sought after in West Africa, especially in Ghana, where they played a vital role in trade and cultural exchanges. For centuries, African communities valued these beads not just as currency, but also as symbols of wealth, status, and craftsmanship.

Discover more beautiful Venetian lampwork trade beads at TribalGH:

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