Antique Oval Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Beads - African Trade

Discover this stunning matching pair of rare antique Venetian millefiori mosaic trade beads, skillfully crafted in Venice and highly valued in African trade during the early 1900s. These exquisite oval beads showcase the intricate "thousand flowers" design, embodying both Italian artistry and cultural exchange across continents.

• Size: 13 x 10 mm

• Condition: Very good overall; one bead has a light chip (see photos)

The mosaic millefiori technique used to create these beads was developed in Venice, where skilled artisans fused layers of colorful glass rods to form intricate patterns resembling floral mosaics. Known for their vibrant and enduring beauty, Venetian millefiori beads were traded extensively, especially in West Africa, where they became highly valued in Ghana and other regions for their unique aesthetic and cultural significance. These antique beads continue to symbolize a fascinating history of trade, art, and intercultural connections.

Explore more of our unique millefiori and antique trade beads collections below:

• View TribalGH's Millefiori Mosaic Glass Beads Collection
• View TribalGH's Antique Trade Beads Collection
• Explore Sold Millefiori Beads in Our Archives