Introducing a rare and beautiful old Venetian lampwork bead, also known as a wound glass bead, in a stunning blue color with exquisite "Fancy" trail decoration. This bead hails from the late 1800s to early 1900s and was once part of the African trade, making it an important piece of history for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Size: 14 x 9 mm
Condition: Excellent, considering its age
This type of bead is not just a remarkable piece of craftsmanship but also a testament to the artistry of Venetian glassmakers. Created through a delicate lampwork process, where molten glass is wound around a metal rod and decorated by hand, these beads were highly prized in African markets. Venetian trade beads played a vital role in Ghana and other regions of Africa, where they were used as currency, symbols of wealth, and for ceremonial purposes. Collecting these unique beads preserves a fascinating chapter of history, merging art with commerce across continents.
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