Discover the beauty of this antique red Venetian "Fancy" wound glass trade bead, featuring intricate murrine and trail decoration. Known for its craftsmanship, this bead was made in Venice and dates back to the early 1900s. Used extensively in the African trade, these beads played a significant role in exchanges between Europe and Africa, particularly in Ghana and West Africa.
Size: 18 x 10 mm
Condition: Very good, especially considering its age and historical use.
Lampwork beads, also called wound glass beads, were expertly crafted by winding molten glass around a metal rod. Venetian artisans were renowned for this technique, creating beads of great beauty and cultural significance. These beads were highly sought after in West Africa, particularly Ghana, where they were used as currency and for adornment in tribal communities. Their vibrant designs, like this red bead, symbolize a fascinating intersection of cultures and history.
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