Tribalgh
Rare Antique "Thousand Eyes" Venetian Lampwork African Trade Beads
Rare Antique "Thousand Eyes" Venetian Lampwork African Trade Beads
Rare Antique Venetian "Thousand Eyes" Lampwork Glass Trade Beads – African Trade
Presenting a set of five rare "Thousand Eyes" Fancy Venetian wound glass trade beads, adorned with intricate trail decorations. These stunning beads are an exceptional find, offering a glimpse into the artistry of Venetian beadmaking and their role in African trade. Each bead features the classic "thousand eyes" design, adding to their rarity and collectible value.
- Size of each bead: 10 mm X 6 mm
- Condition: Excellent, with minor decoration loss (see photos)
These beads date back to the late 1800s to early 1900s, a period when Venetian artisans perfected the lampwork (wound) glass technique. Handcrafted in Venice, Italy, the beads were meticulously created by winding molten glass around a mandrel and applying decorative trails to the surface. This labor-intensive process resulted in unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.
Venetian trade beads like these played a significant role in the African trade, especially in regions such as Ghana and West Africa. Beads were not only used as currency but also as symbols of status and wealth. They were highly prized by the local communities, making them an essential part of Africa’s rich cultural and economic history.
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