Beautiful Rare Antique Banded "Kente" Venetian Lampwork Glass Trade Beads

These rare, old matching banded "Kente" fancy Venetian wound glass trade beads feature intricate trail decoration, a stunning reflection of Venetian artistry from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. With their beautiful banded design, these beads were highly prized in African trade, particularly in Ghana, where they held deep cultural significance.

• Size: 13 mm in length, 11 mm in diameter
• Condition: Excellent

Venetian lampwork or wound glass beads are crafted by meticulously winding molten glass around a mandrel, often incorporating decorative trails or layers. This technique, perfected in Venice, Italy, was renowned for producing durable, high-quality beads, which became integral to the bead trade across Africa. In West Africa, particularly Ghana, these beads were not just a medium of exchange but also symbols of wealth, status, and cultural heritage. These "Kente" beads echo the rich traditions of African textile and beadwork artistry, making them a valuable addition to any collection.

Explore more stunning pieces from our Venetian lampwork collection here:

• Venetian Lampwork Beads Collection
• Current Trade Beads Collection
• Sold Venetian Lampwork Beads Archives