Discover this beautiful OLD rare black floral/fancy Venetian lampwork bead with intricate trail decoration, a true testament to the master craftsmanship of 19th-century Venice. Venetian glass trade beads like this were widely used in the African trade, making them highly sought-after collectibles today.
Size: 13 x 12 mm
Condition: Very good condition, with minor decoration loss (please see photos for details)
Venetian lampwork beads, also known as wound glass beads, were meticulously crafted by hand in Venice, Italy. The technique involves winding molten glass around a metal rod, allowing skilled artisans to create intricate patterns, such as the delicate floral and trail designs seen on this bead.
These beads played a significant role in African history, especially in Ghana and West Africa, where they were exchanged as currency and used as symbols of wealth, power, and status. Collectors treasure these beads for their beauty and historical importance, making them a valuable addition to any collection.
