Discover this beautiful, antique Venetian glass trade bead, often referred to as the "King" bead due to its large size and striking design. This stripped black bicone bead is adorned with a distinctive trail decoration, reflecting its rich history as a part of the African trade during the late 1800s to early 1900s. Venetian beads like this were highly valued in regions such as Ghana and West Africa.
Size: 20 x 16 mm
Condition: Good condition with some decoration loss (see photos)
Handcrafted in Venice, Italy, these wound glass beads are a prime example of lampwork artistry. Each bead was meticulously formed by winding molten glass around a metal rod, giving it unique patterns and textures. Historically, Venetian lampwork beads played a significant role in trade across Africa, particularly in Ghana, where they were used as currency, for ceremonial purposes, and as symbols of wealth.
