Antique Large Elbow Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead - Rare Find

Discover an exquisite piece of history with this rare, antique Venetian Elbow Millefiori trade bead, crafted in the early 1900s. This vibrant, large glass bead showcases the artistry of Venetian glassmakers, with an intricate mosaic design that has captivated collectors and cultural artisans for centuries. Its unique "elbow" shape, adorned with colorful patterns, marks it as a standout piece among African trade beads. Used in African trade, this bead brings a fascinating history that connects Europe and Africa in a vibrant cultural exchange.

Dimensions:

• Length: 53 mm
• Width: 14 mm

Condition:

• Excellent condition with only a light chip at one end (see photos for details).

Handcrafted in Venice, Italy, this bead is a prime example of the iconic millefiori technique, where layers of molten glass are skillfully arranged into complex, colorful patterns that resemble a “thousand flowers” (mille fiori). Venetian artisans perfected this labor-intensive process, producing beads that were both beautiful and durable, ideally suited for trade across vast distances. Highly sought after in West Africa, millefiori beads played an important role in African trade, particularly in Ghana, where they were treasured as symbols of wealth, status, and cultural heritage.

Enhance your collection with this rare Venetian mosaic bead, a piece rich in history and artistry.

Explore more collectible pieces in the following collections:

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