This is an exceptional strand of Antique Black Venetian Skunk Glass Beads. They are black with applied polychrome dots. African trade beads such as these originated in Venice, Italy where they were produced in the 18th and 19th centuries and traded to Africa.. Each bead has been crafted by an artisan by applying the molten white, red and blue glass dots to the black base of the bead. These beads are round and graduate from 12mm to 16mm. Created using the wound, or drawn glass production method. Skunk Beads represent one of the earliest forms of 'lampwork', a process which involves the addition of small glass globules to a set surface, giving the 3-D raised effect. Black skunk beads are even earlier than the red or white examples. The beads have some chips and pits, consistent with age and use. Some loss of decoration. You get this exact necklace. 

• Circa mid 1800's
• Length: 29 inches
• Bead Size: 12-16mm

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