Antique Large Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Beads - African Trade Pair

Discover a rare and exquisite matching pair of Antique Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Beads, crafted with remarkable precision and rich color. These large, old Venetian beads hold a unique charm, showcasing vibrant millefiori patterns meticulously arranged in mosaic form, making each bead a true masterpiece of craftsmanship.

• Size of each bead: 31 x 12 mm
• Condition: Very good condition with minor beveled edges and extremely light chipping at the ends, adding to their vintage allure.

These beads are believed to have been crafted in Venice in the early 1900s specifically for African trade, where they played a significant role as valuable trade currency across the continent. Millefiori beads, also known as "mosaic beads," are produced through a complex technique involving the fusion of glass canes, each cut into vibrant patterns that resemble blooming flowers. This intricate Venetian craftsmanship made these beads highly prized in African communities, particularly in Ghana, where they symbolized wealth and social prestige.

Explore more stunning vintage beads from TribalGH’s collections:

• Current Millefiori Beads Collection
• Trade Beads Collection
• Archives of Millefiori Beads