Rare Old Venetian "Eye" Wound Glass Trade Beads – Antique African Trade

Discover a beautiful pair of rare and antique Venetian "Eye" trade beads, crafted in the early 1900s using the traditional lampwork technique. These old, wound glass beads feature a raised decoration, making them highly collectible. Often referred to as African trade beads, they were originally used in trade across Africa, particularly in Ghana and West Africa, adding rich cultural history to their beauty.

• Size: Approximately 12 x 12 mm

• Condition: Excellent (minor decoration loss on blue bead – see photos)

These Venetian lampwork beads were meticulously handmade in Venice, Italy, through a delicate process known as wound glass bead making. Each bead is created by winding molten glass around a metal rod and often adorned with intricate raised details like the "Eye" pattern seen in these rare examples. These beads played an essential role in African trade, particularly in Ghana, where they were valued as symbols of wealth, trade currency, and adornment.

Explore our full collection of Venetian Lampwork Beads, discover other Trade Beads, or view our archived sold Venetian Lampwork Beads.