Tribalgh
Antique Large Elbow Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead, Rare
Antique Large Elbow Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead, Rare
Discover the beauty and rarity of this antique Venetian elbow millefiori trade bead—a unique piece rich with history and art. This large, meticulously crafted glass bead from the early 1900s features an exquisite multimurrine pattern with trail decoration, lending it a vibrant mosaic appearance that has captivated collectors for over a century.
This mosaic glass trade bead was created in Venice, Italy, and is recorded in Picard's renowned Volume VI (p.37, bead 668), highlighting its unique value and authenticity. Venetian beads like this one were prized in the African trade, especially across Ghana and other West African regions, where they became a cherished part of the culture and currency exchange.
Size:
- Length: 52 mm
- Diameter: 14 mm
Condition:
- Very good vintage condition with minor chipping at the ends (see photos for details).
A Legacy of Venetian Craftsmanship
Crafted using the meticulous millefiori technique in Venice, this bead exemplifies the intricate glasswork for which Venetian artisans are celebrated. Each color and pattern was achieved by layering colored glass canes, cut into intricate slices, and fused together, creating a “thousand flowers” effect that gives the bead its name. These intricate pieces became essential trade items across Africa, where they were both worn as jewelry and used as a form of currency, especially in regions like Ghana.
This remarkable bead will make a treasured addition to any collection of African trade beads or antique Venetian glasswork.
Explore more unique millefiori and mosaic trade beads from TribalGH:
Explore our collection of these unique historical artifacts and add a piece of history to your collection:
Share
