Rare Pair of Antique Elbow Millefiori Venetian Glass Trade Beads - 20mm

Discover this rare, matching pair of antique Venetian elbow millefiori glass trade beads, a stunning example of early 1900s craftsmanship. These beads are beautifully made with the intricate millefiori, or "thousand flowers," mosaic technique, a hallmark of Venetian artistry. Highly prized in the African trade, these Venetian trade beads not only hold beauty but also cultural significance, especially in Ghana and West Africa.

Bead Details:

• Size: 20 mm x 8 mm
• Condition: Excellent (with minor air bubbles, adding to their authenticity)

Each bead is meticulously crafted with vibrant floral patterns, embodying the iconic Venetian millefiori tradition. This unique process involves layering colored glass rods to achieve a "mosaic" effect, resulting in intricate floral designs that appear almost woven within the glass. Created in Venice, Italy, these beads traveled along African trade routes, becoming a sought-after item for their beauty and cultural value. In Ghana and other parts of Africa, millefiori beads were symbols of wealth and status, making these pieces timeless artifacts.

Explore more exquisite millefiori beads in our collections:

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