Antique Oval Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Beads 12-13mm

Discover a rare collection of antique Venetian oval millefiori mosaic glass trade beads, known for their vibrant patterns and cultural significance. Each bead showcases an intricate mosaic of colors and floral patterns, meticulously crafted in Venice in the early 1900s and used widely in African trade. This particular strand is a stunning example of the iconic millefiori technique, blending art and history into every piece.

• Bead Size: 12-13 mm length x 10-11 mm width

• Condition: Excellent; very lightly beveled

The millefiori technique, meaning "thousand flowers," involves layering molten glass rods of vibrant colors, then cutting cross-sections to reveal intricate flower and geometric patterns. Venetian artisans perfected this labor-intensive art, creating beads that were highly valued in trade, especially across Ghana and other regions in Africa. These beads served as symbols of wealth and were used in cultural ceremonies, playing a vital role in the history of African trade and art.

Explore more in our collections:

• Current Millefiori Beads for Sale
• Available Trade Beads Collection
• Archived Millefiori Beads