Antique Black Fancy Venetian Lampwork Glass Trade Beads, 1800s-1900s

Discover the beauty and history of these five stunning antique black "FANCY" Venetian lampwork glass trade beads. Handcrafted in Venice, Italy, these beads date back to the late 1800s - early 1900s and were historically used in African trade. Each bead is adorned with intricate trail decorations, making them a prized addition to any collection.

• Bead Length: 12 mm
• Bead Diameter: 7 mm
• Condition: Excellent, with a few air bubbles (see photos)

These wound glass beads were expertly crafted using traditional lampwork techniques in Venice. Skilled artisans would heat glass rods over an open flame and carefully shape each bead by winding molten glass around a metal rod. The delicate trail decorations were added as part of this process, giving each bead a unique appearance. These beads played an important role in African trade, particularly in Ghana and other regions, where they were exchanged as valuable currency and symbols of status.

Explore more of our exceptional Venetian trade beads and their rich history:

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