Rare 3-Layer SPEO Chevron Bead – Antique Venetian Trade Glass

Rare Antique 3-Layer "SPEO" Venetian Chevron Glass Trade Bead

This is a rare and highly collectible old 3-layer Venetian Chevron glass trade bead, identified as the unique "SPEO" variety and documented in Picard Volume VII, p.29, bead 137. With its distinct form and classic chevron layering, this bead is a standout piece for serious collectors of antique African trade beads.

• Size: 16 mm x 13 mm

• Condition: Very Good (beveled edges; see photos)

This exceptional Venetian Chevron bead-also known as a Rosetta bead-was made in Venice in the early 1900s and traded extensively across West Africa. Its three-layer construction and beveled finish showcase the skill of Murano glassmakers and the cultural significance these beads held in historical trade routes.

History, Value, and Craftsmanship of Chevron Beads

Chevron beads have been treasured for centuries and are among the most iconic of all trade beads. First created in Venice during the 15th century, they are crafted using a caneworking technique where multiple layers of colored glass are fused, drawn into rods, then cut and ground to reveal their signature starburst or layered pattern.

These beads were highly valued across African markets, serving as a form of currency and cultural ornament. Unique variants like the "SPEO" Chevron are rare and prized for their distinct features, historic relevance, and the remarkable glass artistry they represent.

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