Antique Banded Millefiori Venetian Mosaic African Trade Beads

Antique Banded Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Beads

Discover the exquisite beauty of these four antique banded millefiori Venetian mosaic glass trade beads. These rare beads, with their stunning and intricate patterns, are a testament to the craftsmanship of early 1900s Venice. Perfect for collectors and jewelry designers alike, these beads tell a rich story of cultural exchange and artistic excellence.

• Size: 11 mm x 11 mm

• Condition: Excellent condition with very light chipping at the ends (see photos)

Each bead has been meticulously crafted using the ancient millefiori technique, a labor-intensive process that involves creating intricate patterns by fusing multiple layers of colored glass. These beads were then traded across Africa, playing a significant role in the cultural and economic exchanges between Venice and various African regions, particularly Ghana. Such trade beads were highly prized and often used as currency, making them not only beautiful artifacts but also important historical objects.

Explore more of TribalGH's collections:

• Current Millefiori Beads Collection
• Current Trade Beads Collection
• Archived Millefiori Beads