Description: RARE! Antique Matching Molded & Cased Murrine Venetian Millefiori Chevron African Trade Bead with Trail Decoration ~ *19th Century handcrafted in Venice, Italy & traded in West Africa before coming to the US *24 inches *74 beads total: Approximately 16-18 mm x 5-9 mm *These strands are not intended to be a ready-to-wear necklace; best for restringing on more durable thread *In excellent, gently used antique condition from traveling 3 continents & aged over 100 years old with some small signs of use & wear normal for these types of beads African trade beads originated from Europe and were used for trading purposes in Africa between the 16th century & early 20th century. Before the abolition of slavery, these beads were used by chiefs as currency in exchange for slaves, as well as incense, ivory, tortoiseshell, horn, oils, timber, iron, and other metals. Brightly colored glass beads with exotic shapes and intricate patterns fit extremely well as the most desirable trade material due to the popular demand that African Cultures had for luxurious and unusual adornment. European trade beads took on such importance and cachet that they became a status symbol of wealth and power in African communities. Certain types deemed the most valuable were reserved for use only by Kings and their Royal Courts. Almost all cultures in this time period viewed these exotic "foreign" glass beads a symbol of wealth and social standing.
Price: 275 USD
Location: Marina del Rey, California
End Time: 2024-11-30T19:12:04.000Z
Shipping Cost: N/A USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Origin: Venetian
Type: Strand
Color: Multi-Color
Style: Millefiori
Material: Glass
Country/Region of Manufacture: Italy
Handmade: Yes
