Tribalgh
Rare Antique Oval Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Beads, 4 pcs
Rare Antique Oval Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Beads, 4 pcs
These four rare and beautiful oval Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade beads showcase the artistry of antique glass bead craftsmanship. Originating from Venice in the early 1900s, these beads were expertly crafted for the African trade and have journeyed across continents, carrying both beauty and history. Each bead features intricate mosaic patterns that embody the Venetian glassmaking tradition, a technique that requires immense skill and patience.
- Size of each bead: 13 mm x 10 mm
- Condition: Excellent (lightly beveled, as shown in photos)
The art of creating millefiori (Italian for "a thousand flowers") beads involves layering different colors of molten glass rods to form intricate floral or geometric patterns, which are then sliced and shaped into beads. Each bead is a small, stunning mosaic with colors and patterns that remain vivid to this day.
These glass trade beads played an essential role in African trade, especially in regions like Ghana, where they held significant cultural and economic value. Valued as both currency and adornment, Venetian trade beads became woven into the local traditions and are still cherished in African art and jewelry design today.
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