1875-1910 Antique African Trade Bead Collection – Millefiori, Venetian Drawn Glass, Powder Glass

$150.00
A visually rich and historically grounded assortment of antique African trade beads, comprising a diverse mix of Venetian millefiori (mosaic), layered drawn glass, and West African powder glass examples. These beads were produced primarily in Venice and Bohemia for export to West Africa during the height of the trade bead era and circulated extensively in regional adornment and exchange systems. The group includes several standout millefiori beads featuring classic concentric “eye” motifs and complex cane construction, dating to the late 19th to early 20th century. These are complemented by a selection of striped drawn glass beads with layered coloration—reds, blues, whites, and yellows—typical of Venetian export production of the same period. Also present are matte-finished powder glass beads, likely of Ghanaian (Krobo) origin, identifiable by their softer surface and subtly banded decoration. Additional elements include worn yellow and white beads exhibiting age-related surface pitting, consistent with long-term use and handling. The translucent red beads are glass examples, likely European in origin, and should not be confused with organic materials such as horn. Condition varies across the group, with visible wear, minor losses, and surface weathering consistent with age and ethnographic use. Overall, a compelling and authentic mixed lot suitable for collectors, designers, or further study. Price is firm. Please don't ask for a concession. Check out some of my other jewelry here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP?ref=shop_sugg§ion_id=16957559 Pounce on this terrific piece or just browse around the shop! https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP
A visually rich and historically grounded assortment of antique African trade beads, comprising a diverse mix of Venetian millefiori (mosaic), layered drawn glass, and West African powder glass examples. These beads were produced primarily in Venice and Bohemia for export to West Africa during the height of the trade bead era and circulated extensively in regional adornment and exchange systems. The group includes several standout millefiori beads featuring classic concentric “eye” motifs and complex cane construction, dating to the late 19th to early 20th century. These are complemented by a selection of striped drawn glass beads with layered coloration—reds, blues, whites, and yellows—typical of Venetian export production of the same period. Also present are matte-finished powder glass beads, likely of Ghanaian (Krobo) origin, identifiable by their softer surface and subtly banded decoration. Additional elements include worn yellow and white beads exhibiting age-related surface pitting, consistent with long-term use and handling. The translucent red beads are glass examples, likely European in origin, and should not be confused with organic materials such as horn. Condition varies across the group, with visible wear, minor losses, and surface weathering consistent with age and ethnographic use. Overall, a compelling and authentic mixed lot suitable for collectors, designers, or further study. Price is firm. Please don't ask for a concession. Check out some of my other jewelry here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP?ref=shop_sugg§ion_id=16957559 Pounce on this terrific piece or just browse around the shop! https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP