Rare Antique Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Bead, African Trade Glass, 22x11mm

This rare antique Venetian millefiori trade bead is an exquisite piece, blending intricate murrine and elegant trail decorations. A prized Venetian mosaic glass design, this bead showcases the classic millefiori technique that was highly sought after during the African trade era in the early 1900s. Its colors and patterns make it a beautiful addition to any collection of antique or African trade beads.

• Size: 22 x 11 mm

• Condition: Very good; lightly beveled with minimal chipping at ends (see photos for detail)

Venetian millefiori (meaning "a thousand flowers") beads were crafted using a painstaking murrine technique, which involved layering glass canes to produce vibrant, floral-like patterns. Each bead carries with it the artistry of Venetian glassmakers, revered for their skillful use of color and form. Originally traded throughout Africa, these mosaic glass beads held significant value, especially in regions like Ghana, where they symbolized wealth and status. Millefiori beads remain a powerful link to Africa’s trade history and are celebrated by collectors worldwide.

Explore TribalGH's complete collections of millefiori and trade beads: Millefiori Mosaic Glass Beads | Old Trade Beads Collection | Millefiori Beads Archives