Rare Antique Red Banded Oval Millefiori Mosaic Trade Beads - 14-15mm

Discover the allure of history with these four rare antique Venetian red-banded millefiori mosaic glass trade beads. Beautifully crafted in Venice during the late 1800s to early 1900s, these beads are an extraordinary find for collectors and admirers of African trade beads. Each bead's oval shape and distinctive red banding add a touch of elegance and rarity to this set.

These antique glass trade beads were meticulously crafted in Venice using the millefiori technique, giving them their signature mosaic look, with each layer and color distinct yet harmonious. Their journey through African trade routes enriches their historical significance and makes them cherished pieces for bead enthusiasts and historians alike.

Bead Size:

• Length: 14-15 mm
• Diameter: 9 mm

Condition:

• Excellent: Very lightly beveled edges; see photos for details.

Craftsmanship & History:
Millefiori, meaning "a thousand flowers" in Italian, is a glasswork technique originating in Venice, where layers of colored glass rods are fused to create stunning, intricate mosaic designs. These beads played an essential role in trade networks across Ghana and other African regions, often exchanged as valuable currency and symbols of social standing. Each bead embodies the rich artistic heritage of Venetian glassmaking and the deep historical connections within African trade.

For more unique millefiori beads, explore:

Explore more of TribalGH's collection:

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