Rare Antique Large Multimurrine Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Trade Bead - 47mm

This exceptional antique Venetian Multimurrine millefiori mosaic glass trade bead is a stunning example of Italian craftsmanship from the early 1900s. The bead is noted in Picard's Volume VI (p.54, bead 1424), highlighting its unique place in trade bead history. Made in Venice with vibrant, intricate murrine patterns, this bead was crafted using the iconic millefiori (or “thousand flowers”) technique, creating a captivating mosaic design.

• Size: 47 mm x 14 mm
• Condition: Very good, featuring beveled edges (see photos)

Crafted with precision in Venice, Italy, these glass trade beads were originally created for the African trade market and were highly prized across West Africa, particularly in Ghana. The ancient millefiori technique involves layering and slicing glass canes to produce exquisite floral and geometric mosaics. This particular bead, with its large size and complex design, is a rare find and a testament to the rich cultural exchanges facilitated through trade beads. Such beads remain cherished in African art and heritage, representing centuries of history and intercultural exchange.

Whether you're a collector or simply an admirer of antique trade beads, this Venetian Multimurrine bead brings elegance and historical significance to any collection.

Explore more from our collection:

• Millefiori Mosaic Glass Beads
• Old Trade Beads
• Archived Millefiori Beads