Tribalgh
Antique Large Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Bead - 32mm
Antique Large Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Bead - 32mm
Discover a beautiful and rare antique Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade bead, crafted in the early 1900s. This stunning bead, cataloged in Picard's Volume VI on page 67, bead 2070, showcases the timeless artistry of Venice. Made with vibrant millefiori ("thousand flowers") patterns, this bead was cherished in African trade and has become a valuable collector's item for those captivated by the history of trade beads.
Specifications:
- Size: 32 mm x 9 mm
- Condition: Very good (lightly beveled with minimal chipping at the ends)
Venetian artisans used a meticulous technique to produce these millefiori beads, layering glass canes and carefully slicing them to create intricate floral and geometric patterns. Once crafted, beads like this one were traded extensively across West Africa, especially in Ghana, where they became symbols of wealth, culture, and connection. These trade beads continue to be revered for their craftsmanship and cultural heritage, telling stories of centuries-old exchanges and vibrant traditions.
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