Venetian Millefiori Trade Bead Necklace with Akan Gold Weight Pendant, West Africa (Ghana), Glass and Cast Brass

A composed strand of Venetian millefiori (mosaic glass) trade beads, incorporating an Akan cast brass pendant in the form of a gold weight. Produced in Venice and exported to West Africa, such beads formed part of established trade networks and were widely integrated into systems of adornment and exchange. The pendant reflects Akan metalworking traditions, where cast brass weights historically functioned within gold dust economies and later as symbolic forms in jewellery.

The beads display polychrome cane construction with eye and trail motifs, showing surface wear consistent with age and circulation. The pendant is executed in the lost-wax casting technique and retains a stable, darkened patina. The strand has been professionally restrung for preservation and wearability, ensuring structural integrity while maintaining the integrity of the original components. Assemblages of this type are collected for their material history and the interaction between European manufacture and West African usage.

Circa:
Beads: Late 19th–Early 20th century
Pendant: 20th century (Akan, Ghana)

Provenance:
Collection Egon Guenther Collection; by family descent to the Thomas Guenther Collection

Measurements:
Length: 66 cm

Weight:
146 g