Rare Antique Large Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Trade Beads - African Trade

Presenting a rare set of three exquisite, antique Venetian millefiori trade beads, renowned for their beauty, craftsmanship, and historical significance in the African trade. These large beads feature intricate mosaic designs, crafted using the traditional millefiori technique perfected in Venice, Italy. Each bead showcases stunning, multi-layered patterns that add elegance and charm, making them a highly desirable addition for collectors and jewelry designers alike.

Specifications:

• Bead Sizes: 17 x 9 mm and 18 x 10 mm
• Condition: Very good, with beveled edges (refer to photos)

These rare, large millefiori beads date back to the early 1900s, when Venetian artisans created them specifically for the African trade market. The technique, which translates to "a thousand flowers," involved layering colorful glass canes to achieve intricate floral and geometric patterns within each bead. These beads became highly valuable in West Africa, especially in Ghana, where they were often used as currency and status symbols in trade and cultural exchanges. Millefiori beads are a testament to the rich history and cultural interactions facilitated by Venetian craftsmanship and the African trade routes.

For more unique millefiori and trade beads, explore our collections at TribalGH:

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