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Authentic Antique 19thC Venetian Red “Skunk” Chevron Bead Slices – 17pc African Trade Bead Lot
A genuine antique 19th-century Venetian glass bead lot featuring 17 red and white Chevron “Skunk” bead slices with distinctive diagonal or “elbow” cuts.
These are traditional six-layer Venetian Chevron / Rosetta beads, constructed from layered glass with a cobalt blue core and red and white outer layers. When sliced through the drawn glass cane, the layered construction reveals the characteristic starburst and Chevron pattern associated with these historic Venetian trade beads. Six-layer Chevron beads were produced in Venice beginning in the early 19th century and were made extensively for export to African markets.
The 17 individual pieces feature:
- Authentic antique Venetian glass
- Red, white and cobalt blue coloration
- Six-layer Chevron construction
- Diagonal / “elbow” style cuts revealing the layered cane
- Flat sliced sections showing the internal pattern
- Traditional African trade bead history
- Natural age-related surface characteristics
- Minor pitting, superficial edge/end chipping and internal residue around some bore holes
- Visible accumulated dirt and dust consistent with long-term age and use
- Each piece has its own variations and signs of age
This group was discovered tucked inside a multicultural vintage estate bead collection and is being offered in 100% untouched, uncleaned condition. The beads have not been polished, scrubbed or otherwise altered. Visible dirt, dust, residue and age characteristics have intentionally been left intact.
The condition is part of the history of these beads. The small pits, edge wear, minor chips and material around the bore holes are visible in the photographs and should be considered when evaluating the lot.
Venetian Chevron beads were important trade beads in West Africa and other international trade networks. Their distinctive layered construction and star-patterned cross sections made them recognizable products of Venetian glassmaking and long-distance trade.
A wonderful small collection for the antique bead collector, African trade bead enthusiast, jewelry designer, researcher, or anyone interested in historic Venetian glass.
Please examine all photographs carefully. They are an important part of the description and show the individual beads, cuts, coloration, surface condition, bore holes and age-related imperfections.
17 pieces total.
Offered exactly as discovered — antique, untouched and uncleaned.
