Tribalgh
Antique Red Banded Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Beads, 17-18mm
Antique Red Banded Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Beads, 17-18mm
Discover the beauty of these antique Venetian red-banded millefiori mosaic glass trade beads, crafted with precision in Venice and widely circulated in the African trade during the early 1900s. These rare beads display a rich, deep red background adorned with intricate mosaic patterns that showcase the remarkable craftsmanship of Venetian bead artisans. A rare find for collectors, these beads have maintained their vibrant colors and beautiful banding, making them a standout addition to any collection.
Size:
- Diameter: 17-18 mm
- Width: 10 mm
Condition:
- Excellent condition
These old trade beads were crafted using the mosaic "millefiori" technique, a meticulous process that layers multiple colors of glass into a single bead, achieving unique floral and geometric patterns. Venetian glassmakers perfected this skill, contributing to a long history of bead-making expertise that Venetian artisans shared globally. By the early 20th century, beads like these played an important role in the African trade, particularly across Ghana and West Africa, where they became valued symbols of status, artistry, and heritage. Today, these exquisite beads remain treasured collector's items, embodying a beautiful link to cultural exchange and artistic tradition.
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