Chevrons Venetian Trade Beads 30 Inches Jk Brown Collection
Description
6 Layer Chevrons
Venetian Chevron beads are highly regarded as the most beautiful and collectible among Venetian "Trade Beads." Produced through a multi-step process involving layering different colored glasses in a 12-point star mold, Chevron beads are also known as "Rosetta" and "Star" beads. The earliest versions from the late 1400s had seven layers, evolving over time to include 8, 9, and 10 layers in the 1500s, and later 3 and 5 layers in the 1600s-1700s. The peak production in the late 1800s and early 1900s featured 4 and 6-layer beads.
Chevron beads, traded globally, gained popularity in Africa, with Dutch traders introducing them in the late 1400s. Some rare 7-layer Chevrons found in Peru are attributed to Christopher Columbus. Although still crafted in Venice, production is limited, with variations in India and China. Renowned contemporary Chevron bead makers include Art Seymour in the United States and Luigi Cattelan in Italy.
Counting Chevron layers is from the innermost (around the perforation) to the outermost layer, typically identified by different colors. Despite challenges, Chevron beads remain popular globally, with significant private collections in Africa, Europe, and America. In Africa, they signify prestige, are worn at ceremonies, and are even buried with the deceased.
Provenance: Jk Brown Collection
Kathie and Jerry Brown have been collecting trade beads for more than 50 years. They had a business selling them for many years, called “Thunder and Lightning.” According to Jerry, “Kathie was the lightning, and I was the thunder!” Their collecting began in 1967 when they met a Peace Corps volunteer who was selling his collection to finance a school for African children- and the Browns bought it all. Over the years, they’ve amassed thousands of stands of Venetian and other European trade beads, as well as made-in-Africa beads and jewelry. They sold at Mountain Man rendezvous and other events. Africa Direct is very proud to be the new owner of this extraordinary collection.
Bead Size
14-20mm diameter. See picture with penny for size comparison. U.S. penny is 19mm in diameter.
Strand Length
30 inches (includes string/raffia)
This strand is not intended to be a ready-to-wear necklace. Although the strand can be worn "as is," the raffia holding it together is not durable and may break with use. For this reason, we recommend that you restring the beads before wearing them.
142541
Approximate Age: Late 19th to Mid 20th Century
People: Venetian
Country of Origin: Italy
Length Details
Size Details
Material
Condition
Overall Condition: Good to fair. Some of our beads have traveled at least three continents, and have graced numerous owners.