Antique African Trade Beads: Venetian Lampwork Tabular Fancy Beads

Presenting a beautiful matching pair of old and rare tabular brick "Fancy" Venetian wound glass trade beads with intricate trail decoration, as referenced in Picard, Volume IV, page 11, bead 354. These exquisite beads, hailing from Venice, were used in the African trade during the late 1800s to early 1900s.

• Size: 16 - 17 mm X 10 mm X 7 mm
• Condition: Very good (beveled, see photos)

Each bead is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of Venetian artisans, who meticulously created these lampwork or wound glass beads. The technique involves winding molten glass around a mandrel, allowing for intricate designs and durability.

Trade beads like these played a significant role in the history of commerce in Ghana and across Africa, serving as both currency and symbols of social status.

Explore more of our collection here:

• Venetian Lampwork Beads Collection
• Old Trade Beads Collection
• Sold Venetian Lampwork Beads Archive