Rare Antique Green Bicone "King" Venetian Glass Trade Bead

Rare Antique Green Bicone "King" Venetian Lampwork Glass Trade Bead

This exquisite **old and rare green bicone "King" Venetian glass trade bead** is a true collector's piece. Made in Venice, this bead features a stunning trail decoration, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship of **lampwork beads** used in the African trade during the late 1800s to early 1900s. A unique piece that embodies the history and artistry of Venetian **wound glass beads**, this bicone bead is a rare find for collectors and bead enthusiasts.

• Size: 20mm x 17mm
• Condition: Very good (very lightly chipped, see photos)

The Venetian lampwork technique, also known as wound glass bead-making, has been mastered by artisans in Venice for centuries. These beads were individually hand-crafted by wrapping molten glass around a mandrel, allowing for unique designs like the trail decoration seen here. Highly sought after for use in the African trade, particularly in Ghana and other regions of West Africa, these beads held great value as currency and symbols of prestige, making them a key part of African history and culture.

Explore more Venetian lampwork beads currently for sale at TribalGH's Venetian Lampwork Beads Collection.

Browse our collection of other trade beads here.

Check out our archived collection of sold Venetian lampwork beads in the Archives.