Antique Large Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead, African Trade

Add a stunning piece of history to your collection with this Large Antique Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead. This unique bead was expertly crafted in Venice and was widely used in African trade during the early 1900s, carrying rich cultural significance and timeless beauty.

Size: Length: 39 mm Width: 12 mm

Condition: Good condition with beveled ends and minor chipping (see photos for details).

This Venetian millefiori bead showcases intricate mosaic patterns formed through the famous “millefiori” technique. Venetian artisans in the 19th and early 20th centuries meticulously arranged slices of colorful glass canes to create detailed floral and geometric patterns, making each bead unique. Known for their vibrant colors and intricate designs, these glass beads held immense value in trade, especially within Africa. Millefiori beads played a significant role in the Ghanaian and West African economies, where they were exchanged for goods and became cherished symbols of wealth and status.

Explore more exquisite beads from TribalGH:

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