Antique Large Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Bead, African Trade

Discover an exquisite piece of history with this beautiful and rare antique millefiori Venetian mosaic glass trade bead. Known for its intricate design and large size, this bead offers a captivating display of color and craftsmanship, making it a perfect addition to any collection of antique glass beads. This remarkable bead dates back to the early 1900s, when Venetian artisans meticulously crafted these iconic trade beads for the African market.

Specifications:

• Size: 30 x 11 mm
• Condition: Good vintage condition with minor beveling and light chipping at the ends (see photos for details)

This antique Venetian bead was expertly crafted using the time-honored millefiori (Italian for "thousand flowers") technique, a complex glassmaking process involving layering and fusing colored glass rods to create intricate floral patterns. Each bead was then shaped with exceptional skill to showcase a vibrant mosaic effect, highly valued among collectors and bead enthusiasts alike.

In African history, especially in regions like Ghana, these mosaic beads were much more than decorative items—they served as vital trade currency and symbols of status. European traders exchanged these beads for goods and services, making them significant cultural artifacts that highlight the rich trade history between Europe and Africa.

Explore more antique Venetian millefiori and mosaic beads in our collections:

• Current Millefiori Beads Collection
• Antique Trade Beads Collection
• Archived Millefiori Beads