Antique Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead, 37x11mm

Presenting an exquisite antique Venetian Millefiori mosaic glass trade bead, celebrated for its unique artistry and historical significance in African trade. This old elbow-shaped mosaic bead, referenced in Picard’s Volume VI, page 38, bead 693, is a stunning piece of history that collectors and enthusiasts alike cherish.

This bead was crafted in Venice in the early 1900s and carries vibrant millefiori ("thousand flowers") patterns, showcasing colorful floral designs fused in glass. Venetian artisans perfected this technique, creating visually captivating beads that were valued as trade items, especially throughout Ghana and Africa.

Size:

• Length: 37 mm
• Width: 11 mm

Condition:

• Very good with minimal wear, considering its age

Millefiori beads like this one were made using a labor-intensive process, where rods of colorful glass, known as canes, were sliced into sections to reveal intricate floral patterns and then embedded in clear or colored glass. These Venetian beads held cultural and economic importance in African trade, symbolizing wealth and social status. Their appeal remains strong, connecting collectors to the rich traditions of global trade.

For more millefiori treasures, explore TribalGH’s collections:

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