Western Europe, Italy, Venice, ca. 19th century CE; West Africa, ca. 19th to mid-20th century. An enormous strand of Venetian glass trade beads, each comprised of vibrant colors and elaborate decorative motifs. The beads exhibit a variety of forms - including cylindrical, cuboid, spherical, and tube - along with millefiori, bullseye, mosaic, and composite patterning formed from lengthy canes of handmade glass. Beads like these were used for trading purposes throughout Africa and the New World, serving as currency where glass was a rare commodity. Size (necklace): 60" L (152.4 cm); (largest bead): 1.60" L x 0.48" W x 0.45" H (4.1 cm x 1.2 cm x 1.1 cm)

Provenance: private J.H. collection, Beaverton, Oregon, USA

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#152144

Wearable as shown and strung in modern times. Some beads with chips and losses, though most are intact - and all are in great condition. Nice coloration throughout.