Antique Green Banded Oval Millefiori Beads - Venetian Mosaic African Trade

Antique Green Banded Oval Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Beads

Introducing our exquisite collection of four beautiful rare old GREEN BANDED OVAL millefiori Venetian mosaic glass trade beads. These beads are a testament to the timeless artistry of Venetian glassmakers and the rich history of African trade beads.

• Size: 13 mm x 9 mm
• Condition: Excellent (very lightly beveled, see photos)

These Venetian Millefiori mosaic glass trade beads were used in the African trade in the early 1900s, reflecting a significant period in bead history where such intricate pieces were highly prized and traded extensively across continents.

Craftsmanship and Historical Significance

The term "Millefiori" translates to "a thousand flowers," a fitting description for these beads adorned with intricate floral patterns. The meticulous process involves layering colored glass rods to create stunning mosaic designs, then cutting them into cross-sections to form individual beads. This technique has been perfected by Venetian artisans, making each bead a unique work of art.

These trade beads hold great historical importance, particularly in Ghana and across Africa, where they were exchanged as currency and worn as symbols of wealth and status. Collectors and enthusiasts treasure them not only for their beauty but also for their cultural and historical value.

Explore more from our collection:

• Current Millefiori Beads Collection
• Old Trade Beads Collection
• Sold Millefiori Beads Archives