Discover this beautiful and very rare OLD large black bicone Venetian wound glass trade bead, dating back to the late 1800s to early 1900s. This bead features an exquisite trail decoration, adding an extra level of artistry and charm. Known as the "King" bead, this piece is documented in the renowned Picard reference book (Volume V, page 26, strand 8). An exceptional addition to any collection, this bead holds great historical and cultural value.
Bead Size:
Condition:
- Very good condition with minor decoration loss (see photos).
These Venetian wound glass beads were skillfully handcrafted in Venice using the traditional lampwork technique. Each bead was individually formed by winding molten glass around a rod, allowing for unique designs such as the trail decoration found on this piece. Venetian glass beads were highly prized in African trade, particularly in Ghana, where they held not only monetary but symbolic and ceremonial value. Such beads were often traded for gold, ivory, and other resources, cementing their role in the cultural and economic history of Africa.
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