Tribalgh
Rare Antique Venetian "Eye" Fancy Wound Glass African Trade Beads
Rare Antique Venetian "Eye" Fancy Wound Glass African Trade Beads
Presenting an exquisite set of three rare matching brick "Eye" Fancy Venetian glass trade beads. These antique beads, carefully crafted using the renowned Venetian lampwork technique, feature intricate trail decorations, characteristic of their era. Perfectly suited for collectors of African trade beads, these pieces are a window into a rich history of craftsmanship and cultural exchange.
- Bead Size: 16 mm x 10 mm
- Condition: Excellent condition with minor decoration loss (see photos)
These Venetian wound glass beads were produced in the late 1800s to early 1900s, specifically for use in the African trade. Known for their durability and vibrant patterns, they played an essential role in trade networks across Ghana and West Africa.
The beads were made using the lampwork technique, where glass is wound around a mandrel and then decorated with delicate trails of molten glass. This labor-intensive process, perfected by Venetian artisans, resulted in beads that were highly prized by African traders. Trade beads like these were not just currency but symbols of status and wealth, highly sought after across the African continent.
For more unique Venetian lampwork beads, explore our full collection here:
Share
