Tribalgh
Antique Elbow Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead, 53mm
Antique Elbow Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead, 53mm
This antique Venetian elbow millefiori trade bead is a stunning example of early 20th-century artistry, renowned for its vivid colors and intricate mosaic patterns. Created in Venice, Italy, and crafted to meet the high standards of traditional Venetian glasswork, this bead carries a fascinating history tied to African trade routes. Each color and pattern is carefully embedded, creating a unique mosaic effect that has mesmerized collectors and enthusiasts for over a century.
Bead Details:
- Size: 53 x 13 mm
- Condition: Very good, with minimal chipping at one end (see photos)
Venetian millefiori beads, often referred to as mosaic beads or African trade beads, were produced with an intricate glassworking technique in Venice, where glass rods or "murrine" were sliced into vibrant cross-sections. This unique method created rich, colorful designs that became highly valued across Africa, especially in Ghana, where they were traded as symbols of wealth and social status. Today, these beads hold significant historical and cultural value as a cherished collector’s item and a beautiful piece of history.
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