Antique Oval Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Beads - African Trade, 11x8mm

Discover a beautiful set of five rare antique Venetian oval millefiori mosaic glass trade beads, meticulously crafted in Venice and used in the African trade in the early 1900s. These beads, with their striking brick-red tones and intricate mosaic patterns, represent the artistry and vibrant heritage of Venetian glassmakers. Highly prized among collectors, these glass beads were widely exchanged in African trade and continue to be cherished for their rich history and detailed craftsmanship.

Size:

• Dimensions: 11 mm x 8 mm
• Quantity: 5 beads

Condition:

• Excellent vintage condition with minimal signs of wear

These millefiori beads are a prime example of Venetian glassmaking techniques, combining "millefiori" - a thousand flowers - in which colorful glass canes are sliced into floral patterns and fused into each bead. Their production involved precision and creativity, resulting in intricate designs that captivated traders and local artisans alike. Millefiori trade beads played a key role in African trade, especially in regions such as Ghana, where these beads were highly valued as symbols of wealth and status.

Explore more of TribalGH's collection:

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