19th Century Venetian Blue Ribbons Bead Strand / Necklace


$ 1,360.00 $ 1,700.00
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  • Extremely Rare and Fine early 19th century Venetian hand wound and inlaid " Ribbon" pattern glass beads in a rich blue and vivid forest green color.
  • Originally created in Venice and Murano Italy, a torch or high intensity flame glass lamp was used to melt glass canes or rods. Once in a molten state, the glass bead was formed by blowing and shaping with tools and hand movements. Often a winding technique can be seen in the body of the glass bead. Intricate patterns, especially favored floral motifs and ribbons wreaths, were created by melting or inlaying other colored canes of glass into the base bead.
  • The "Ribbon" or "Ivy" pattern in rich blue and vivid green colors was hand inlaid into the white wound base bead.
  • These rare and "foreign" glass beads were highly valued trade commodities in Africa, and became the highest level Prestige and Dowry Currency throughout the African Continent. The most rare and beautiful were often collected and worn by African Kings and their Royal Courts.
  • Length : Approx. 23" (Beaded Section 18")
  • Bead Size : Approx. 13 x 11mm
  • This amazing strand of excellent condition very rare Trade Beads was purchased in Nigeria, West Africa years ago, and lovingly restrung on a fresh cotton cord by our New York City staff.