Tribalgh
Antique Rare Elbow Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Bead - 39x11mm
Antique Rare Elbow Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Bead - 39x11mm
Explore the allure of antique Venetian craftsmanship with this rare, old elbow-shaped millefiori mosaic glass trade bead. Made in Venice and used in African trade in the early 1900s, this exquisite bead showcases the vibrant millefiori, or “thousand flowers” technique, with vivid colors and intricate patterns that embody its historic appeal. This bead was hand-crafted to endure journeys from Europe to Africa, where it became a cherished item of trade and value.
Size:
- Length: 39 mm
- Width: 11 mm
Condition:
- Very Good - Light chipping at ends; adds authentic vintage character (see photos)
This antique millefiori bead was meticulously crafted in Venice, using the traditional mosaic glass technique. Each millefiori bead begins with colored glass canes, sliced into delicate “flower” patterns, then fused and shaped, creating a lasting beauty. These beads played a significant role in trade with Ghana and throughout Africa, where they were highly prized and exchanged as currency and adornment.
Explore more unique Venetian trade beads at TribalGH’s collections:
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