Discover a rare, old Venetian bicone "King" wound glass trade bead with intricate trail decoration, a stunning example of antique craftsmanship. This beautiful bead was made in Venice in the late 1800s to early 1900s and used in the African trade, particularly in Ghana and across the continent.
Size: 16mm x 14mm
Condition: Very good condition, with beveled edges (see photos for detail)
These beads were crafted using the traditional lampwork technique, also known as wound glasswork. Venetian artisans expertly heated and wound molten glass around a metal rod to create these stunning pieces, often finishing them with decorative trails. Such beads were highly prized in Africa, where they played a significant role in trade, especially in regions like Ghana. Trade beads were more than just decorative items; they symbolized wealth, status, and cultural exchange.
