Antique Banded Oval Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Beads - 17mm

Discover the allure of Antique Banded Oval Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Beads, crafted in Venice during the late 1800s to early 1900s. These five exquisite glass beads showcase the skilled millefiori, or “thousand flowers,” technique, with vibrant, eye-catching patterns that embody a deep historical significance. Perfectly suited for collectors and artisans alike, these beads reflect the lasting elegance of traditional Venetian craftsmanship.

Specifications:

• Length: 17 mm
• Diameter: 9 mm

Condition:

• Very good: minimal wear with slight chipping at the ends (see photos).

Venetian millefiori beads were produced using a meticulous mosaic process, layering colored glass canes to create unique floral and geometric patterns within each bead. Once crafted in Venice, these beads embarked on long journeys to West Africa, becoming integral to trade networks throughout Ghana and the African continent. Cherished for their brilliant designs and artistic heritage, these mosaic trade beads played a prominent role in African history, symbolizing status, wealth, and cross-cultural exchange.

Explore more of our unique millefiori and trade bead collections:

• Current Millefiori Beads Collection
• Antique Trade Beads Collection
• Sold Millefiori Beads Archive