Rare Antique Venetian Millefiori Green African Trade Bead Necklace

Description

A beautiful strand of Green Millefiori African trade beads handcrafted in Venice.
*19th century-early 20th century
*24 inches (21 tube beads)
*In antique used condition from traveling 3 continents & aged over 100 years old
with some signs of use & wear normal for these types of beads-small chips, corrosion,
etc adding to their wonderful patina
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.
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