Antique Large Round Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Bead - 15mm

Discover a beautiful, antique Venetian Millefiori trade bead crafted with intricate mosaic glasswork. This rare, round glass bead was created in Venice in the early 1900s and once traveled along African trade routes, carrying both artistic and cultural value. Its colorful millefiori patterns have been carefully arranged to form vibrant, floral-like designs, bringing a touch of Italian artistry to African trade traditions.

Size:

• Diameter: 15 mm
• Thickness: 15 mm

Condition:

• Very good condition (slightly beveled edges; please refer to photos)

This Venetian Millefiori bead exemplifies the ancient technique of fusing and slicing canes of colored glass to reveal intricate patterns. Originating from Venice, these glass beads became prized trade items in Ghana and across Africa, where they were exchanged as valuable tokens and symbols of status. Each bead captures a moment in history, linking two continents through art and commerce.

Explore more Millefiori beads and collections below:

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