Strand of Glass Beads

Mid. 19th to early. 20th century, Ghana, West Africa

Fantastic strand composed of small-sized 19th-century Venetian antique glass trade beads, including chevron, millefiori, gooseberry, melon beads, and other classic types. Re-strung on a modern cord. This harmonious mix represents some of the most iconic beads produced in Europe for the African trade.

Trade beads served as a crucial medium of barter within and between communities and are considered among the earliest forms of long-distance exchange. Some scholars even suggest that bead trading played a role in the development of human language by fostering increasingly complex social interaction.

The history of African trade beads expanded dramatically from the 15th century onward, when Portuguese ships began trading along the West African coast. Glass beads, together with other goods, were exchanged for gold, ivory, palm oil, and enslaved people. By the 18th and 19th centuries, beads constituted a major form of currency, with vast quantities transported—often even used as ballast on outbound ships.

Among all beads circulating in Africa, Venetian examples from Murano dominated the market. At the height of production, up to seventeen factories on the island exported hundreds of tons of beads annually. Additional glassmaking centers in Bohemia and the Netherlands increased their output to meet the enormous African demand.

Their popularity was closely tied to the high value placed on adornment within many African societies. Glassmaking was uncommon in Africa, so beads became symbols of wealth, prestige, and social identity. Many bead types were created specifically for particular African markets; European traders even studied regional color preferences and bead styles to refine production. Among the hundreds of designs produced, certain categories became especially prized: millefiori, chevron (rosetta), Lewis & Clark, vaseline, striped melon, eye beads, and padre beads— the latter particularly favored by pastoralist groups in East Africa.

Trade beads functioned as a form of currency until the late 19th century. Thereafter, their significance shifted toward aesthetic and cultural value. In Ghana and throughout West Africa, the quality, quantity, and variety of beads one wears remain enduring indicators of status, heritage, and personal wealth.

Good condition. Wear commensurate with age and use. Beautiful old patina with minor chips and digs. Strand measures approximately 81.0 cm and includes 132 unique glass beads.

Provenance: Dutch private collection

References and further reading:

A Brief History of Glass Beads in Africa, African Odyssey (https://www.africanodyssey.co.uk/blog/a-brief-history-of-glass-beads-in-africa)

The BeadSite. (http://www.thebeadsite.com/welcome.html)

Collectible Beads: A Universal Aesthetic, Robert K. Liu, Ornament, Inc., 1995.

African Odyssey, A Brief History of Glass Beads in Africa.(https://www.africanodyssey.co.uk/blog/a-brief-history-of-glass-beads-in-africa)