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Rare OLD Rattle Snake Venetian Wound Glass Trade Beads – Antique African Trade Beads
Rare OLD Rattle Snake Venetian Wound Glass Trade Beads – Antique African Trade Beads
Add a rare piece of history to your collection with this beautiful matching pair of OLD "Rattle Snake" Venetian wound glass trade beads. These highly sought-after beads, created in Venice, were an integral part of the African trade during the late 1800s and early 1900s. The stunning "Rattle Snake" design showcases the intricate craftsmanship of Venetian artisans, making these beads a true collector's item.
Each bead is carefully crafted using the traditional lampwork (wound glass) technique, a process perfected by Venetian glassmakers for centuries. These beads were hand-formed by winding molten glass around a metal rod, resulting in a unique and durable bead. Their smooth, glossy finish is a testament to the skill of these craftsmen.
- Size of beads: Approximately 12 mm x 8 mm
- Condition: Excellent condition with only a few small air bubbles, as seen in the photos
The role of these beads in the African trade, particularly in regions like Ghana, was significant. Known as "trade beads," they were used as a form of currency and held immense cultural value. Venetian lampwork beads like these were exchanged for goods and services, symbolizing wealth and status in African societies.
If you’re a collector of African trade beads, these antique Venetian Rattle Snake beads are a rare find and offer a glimpse into the rich history of trade between Europe and Africa.
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