Rare Large Black French Cross Venetian Lampwork Beads - 15x12 mm

Discover the charm of our exquisite Beautiful Matching Pair of Rare Large Size OLD Black French Cross Venetian Wound with Trail Decoration Glass Trade Beads. These antique beads, renowned for their intricate craftsmanship, are a splendid addition to any collection. Perfectly preserved, these beads highlight the enduring beauty of Venetian artistry.

• Size of Beads: 15 x 12 mm
• Condition: Excellent (few small air bubbles, see photos)

These Venetian glass trade beads, dating back to the late 1800s to early 1900s, played a significant role in African trade. Known for their unique French cross pattern and intricate trail decoration, these beads were highly valued and widely exchanged across the continent.

Lampwork beads, also known as wound glass beads, were meticulously crafted in Venice using a technique that involved winding molten glass around a metal rod. This method, perfected by Venetian artisans, allowed for the creation of intricate designs and patterns. In African trade, these beads were not just decorative items but also symbols of wealth and status. They played a crucial role in the cultural and economic exchanges, particularly in regions such as Ghana, where they were integral to various traditional ceremonies and social transactions.

For more unique pieces, explore our collections:

• Venetian Lampwork Beads Collection
• Old Trade Beads Collection
• Archives of Sold Venetian Lampwork Beads