Eight Rare Antique Fancy Venetian Lampwork Glass Trade Beads 8mm

These eight rare, beautiful "Fancy" disk/spacer Venetian wound glass trade beads are exquisite examples of antique craftsmanship. Each bead was meticulously handmade in Venice, Italy, during the late 1800s to early 1900s, and later traded across Africa, becoming a significant part of cultural exchange.

• Bead Size: Approximately 8 mm in diameter
• Condition: Excellent with minor natural imperfections such as small air bubbles (see photos)

These Venetian lampwork beads, also known as wound glass beads, were crafted using a time-honored technique passed down through generations of Venetian glassmakers. The molten glass is carefully wound around a metal rod to form intricate shapes and patterns, making each bead unique. This process was used to create beads that became highly sought after in West Africa, particularly in Ghana, where they were traded as a form of currency, signifying wealth and social status.

Whether you're a collector or jewelry maker, these antique beads offer a stunning glimpse into the rich history of African trade and Venetian craftsmanship.

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