Antique Oval Millefiori Mosaic Glass Beads, Venetian Trade Beads

These five antique Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade beads represent the finest craftsmanship of early 1900s Venetian artisans, created specifically for the African trade. Known for their intricate mosaic designs, these beads showcase the beauty and skill of traditional bead-making techniques, beloved in both Africa and worldwide.

• Size: 13-14 mm in length, 11 mm in diameter

• Condition: Very good; slight beveling with one bead showing a light chip (see photos for details)

These oval beads, made in Venice, are constructed using the millefiori technique, a form of glassmaking in which delicate patterns are created with murrine rods that are layered and encased to produce unique, colorful designs. Each bead holds cultural significance as a historical item of trade, valued across West Africa for their intricate patterns and vibrant colors. Millefiori beads played an important role in Ghana and throughout Africa, where they became cherished for their beauty and as symbols of wealth and prestige.

Explore TribalGH's extensive collection of these beautiful and historic Venetian mosaic beads:

• Our collection of Millefiori Mosaic Glass Beads
• Our collection of Antique Trade Beads
• Archived Millefiori Mosaic Trade Beads