Rare Antique Venetian Fancy Glass Trade Beads - Wound & Trail Decor

These four beautiful, rare "FANCY" Venetian wound glass beads feature stunning trail decoration, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship from Venice, Italy. Originally created for the African trade during the late 1800s to early 1900s, these beads are a fine example of antique lampwork beads, treasured for their unique patterns and vibrant colors.

• Size of beads: 12 mm in length, 11 mm in diameter
• Condition: Very good, with minor decoration loss (see photos)

The winding technique used to make these glass beads involved meticulously wrapping molten glass around a metal rod, allowing for the distinctive shape and durability of the bead. Each bead is handcrafted, and the decorative trails are added by layering additional molten glass onto the surface. Venetian beads, like these, were highly valued in African trade, especially in regions such as Ghana, where they played a significant role in barter and cultural expression.

Explore more of TribalGH's collection of rare and antique trade beads:

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